- The Problem: Why Made-in-Nigeria products aren’t always the first choice.
- NASENI’s Plan: A unified approach to strengthen Nigeria’s industry.
- The 3 Cs: Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialization – NASENI’s secret weapon.
- Success Stories: Solar irrigation, electric tricycles, and more!
- The Future: Can Nigeria truly embrace and champion its own products?
Why Aren’t We Buying Nigerian? The Struggle is Real!
For years, Made-in-Nigeria products have faced an uphill battle. Issues like perceived inferior quality, affordability, and just plain old public perception have created major roadblocks. NASENI is determined to change that, and they’re starting with a direct approach, meeting with industry leaders, regulatory bodies, and research institutions to find solutions.
NASENI’s Master Plan: The ‘3 Cs’ to Victory
NASENI isn’t just talking; they’re taking action! Their strategy revolves around what they call the “3 Cs”:
- Creation: Innovating through research and development.
- Collaboration: Working with partners to refine and perfect products.
- Commercialization: Getting those products into the hands of consumers and boosting the economy.
Success Stories: Proof That Nigeria Can!
NASENI isn’t starting from scratch. They’ve already got some impressive achievements under their belt:
- Solar Irrigation Systems: Helping farmers grow crops year-round.
- CNG Conversion Centers: Promoting cleaner energy alternatives.
- High-Capacity Block Machines: Building the nation, one block at a time.
- Locally Made Laptops and Tablets: Powering education and business.
- Electric Tricycles (Keke Napep): Revolutionizing transportation! (Set for market launch!)
And let’s not forget the story of the charcoal stove! NASENI took a stove imported from China, reverse-engineered it, and made it even better. Talk about innovation!
The Challenges Ahead: Funding, Perception, and More
It’s not all smooth sailing. Experts like Dr. Samuel Oluyamo from FUTA point out the lack of funding for research and the disconnect between research institutions and the industry. Plus, there’s the issue of public perception, as Adekole Adetokunbo from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry notes. People need to be convinced that Nigerian products are worth buying.
NASSI Weighs In: It’s a Perception Problem!
Akadiri Olawaseun from the National Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI) hits the nail on the head: it’s a perception problem. He argues that Nigerian-made products are often superior but suffer from a lack of trust and poor advocacy. It’s time to change that narrative!
The Bottom Line: Can Nigeria Rise to the Challenge?
NASENI’s efforts are a crucial step towards building a stronger, more self-reliant Nigeria. By tackling the barriers that have held back local industries, they’re paving the way for a future where Made-in-Nigeria is synonymous with quality, innovation, and pride. Will it work? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Nigeria is ready to compete!
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