Economy: NASENI applauds Tinubu’s administration for ‘Nigeria First Policy’

*Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman and CEO of National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration economic policy that prioritises locally-made products and indigenous solutions in public procurement

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Nigeria First Policy”.

NASENI described President Tinubu administration’s economic policy as a bold step towards accelerating Nigeria’s industrial revolution and economic growth.

Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the agency, who said this in a statement Sunday, May 11, 2025, commended the policy’s prioritisation of locally made goods and indigenous solutions in government procurement.

Halili affirmed the presidential directive would empower local entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and technology innovators by giving them the necessary support to thrive.

The EVC/CEO also stated: “With Mr. President’s directive to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to revise and enforce guidelines in favor of local suppliers, we anticipate a significant increase in patronage of Nigerian-made products.

“Government is a major buyer of goods and services, and this move will translate into increased demand across key sectors.”

Describing the policy as “forward-thinking and revolutionary,” Halilu noted that NASENI has long championed local content through its own initiatives.

He highlighted products developed by the agency, ranging from Nigerian-assembled vehicles and energy systems to smart irrigation tools and electronic devices, as evidence of the quality and competitiveness of local manufacturing.

He further referenced NASENI’s ongoing Made-in-Nigeria Strategic Focus Group meetings held across the country, aimed at driving awareness and understanding of consumer attitudes toward local products.

These forums, the NASENI Chief noted, bring together experts, regulators, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and civil society actors to identify challenges and promote solutions for increasing local patronage.

Halilu said: “We are determined to be at the forefront of implementing the President’s vision.

“But this is also a call to action for local producers. It is not enough to enjoy policy support, quality and standards must never be compromised.

“We must deliver products that compete favourably with imports and meet the needs of Nigerian consumers.”

NASENI, mandated to develop Nigeria’s science and engineering infrastructure, has been engaging stakeholders across states including Katsina, Lagos, Anambra, Delta, Kano, Kaduna, and Ogun to boost innovation, address manufacturing challenges, and encourage the adoption of homegrown solutions.

ConsumerConnect reports President Tinubu administration’s “Nigeria First Policy” directs the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to implement procurement reforms that prioritise local content and maintain a register of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers.

Halilu as well affirmed NASENI’s readiness to lead the charge.

“We have seen the capacity and competence of our local manufacturers.

“They are ready. With the right support, we can achieve true industrialisation powered by Nigerian solutions,” the EVC/CEO added.