Real Sector: Trade Minister unveils strategic initiatives for manufacturing sector, tours leading industries

*Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, MD, CFA, Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment, says the measure is designed to showcase the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability within the manufacturing sector of the Nigerian economy

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

In a move to promote growth, innovation, and sustainability in the real sector of the Nigerian economy, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, MD, CFA, Honourable Minister for Industry, Trade and Investment (ITI), has embarked on a tour of prominent manufacturing companies, such as Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, BUA Sugar Refinery Limited, Flour Mills Limited, Bestaf Limited, Golden Sugar Company, and Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (CHBN).

ConsumerConnect reports Dr. Uzoka-Anite’s tour of industrial facilities in the Organised Private Sector of the country, which began Monday, January 8 would end Thursday, January 11, 2024.

The Minister noted the effort is aimed at showcasing the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability within the manufacturing sector.

The four-day tour commenced at Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, where the Minister addressed the crucial issue of sugar pricing, assuring the public that there would be no increase, especially during the Ramadan period.

She stated: “Today, I witnessed a standard of innovation and commitment to quality. We stand firm in ensuring stable sugar prices, crucial for Nigerians, particularly during Ramadan.

“Let’s forge ahead, creating a sustainable and flourishing sugar industry for all.”

Dr. Uzoka-Anite also pledged the full support of the Federal Government, as she equally announced potential collaborations between the National Sugar Development Council and the Industrial Training Fund.

The Minister explained that the partnership would generate more employment opportunities and enhance skills within the industry.

Collaborations with private sector players

Uzoka-Anite as well revealed the government plans for collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to provide cutting-edge Machinery and Equipment.

According to her, the objective is to reduce importation and promote international standards.

She further disclosed plans for extensive staff training and the introduction of improved seed varieties from the Sugar Institute in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.

Highlighting the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s dedication to job creation, she discussed a Skills Acquisition Collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund, and assured the manufacturers that she will visit all sugar refineries to assess their status.

Low performance in the sugar master plan will no longer be tolerated, she said, stressing the government’s commitment to improving food security and supporting the agricultural sector.

Rounding off the tour on the first day, the Minister’s team visited the Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (CHBN), where they received a comprehensive tour of the facility.

Mr. Goran Sladic, the Country General Manager, disclosed  that the company’s substantial investment in supply chain infrastructure and unveiled plans for a youth empowerment programme.

Sladic stated: “At Coca Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, we showcased our commitment to supply chain infrastructure.

We’re investing $1 billion for job creation, empowering 10,000 youths. collaborating with the government, we will achieve more.”

It is also noted the series of visits to industrial concerns has underscored the Federal Government’s dedication to collaborating with the private sector, driving economic development.

They are also planned to create a conducive environment for sustainable growth within the manufacturing sector in the country’s economy.

Kindly Share This Story