The Federal Government has called on Nigerian manufacturers to embrace smart technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), automation and digital transformation, as part of efforts to improve productivity, reduce operational costs and remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
The call was made by the Deputy Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, during the 13th Annual General Meeting and Public Lecture of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Abuja/Nasarawa/Niger Branch, held in Abuja on Thursday.
Represented by her Special Assistant on the Social Development Secretariat, Helen Zamani, Mahmoud encouraged manufacturers to modernise their operations through capital restructuring, digital innovation and intelligent technologies capable of driving sustainable industrial growth.
“Manufacturers must embrace digital transformation, artificial intelligence and automation to improve efficiency, lower production costs and strengthen their competitiveness,” she said.
Technology as a Driver of Industrial Growth
Mahmoud noted that the FCT Administration is creating an enabling environment for businesses through continued investments in critical infrastructure, including roads, water supply, security and urban renewal projects.
She also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to promote innovation, local content development and skills acquisition that will prepare Nigeria’s manufacturing industry for the future.
The Deputy Minister commended the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria for its consistent advocacy aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Manufacturers Highlight Industry Challenges
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the MAN Abuja/Nasarawa/Niger Branch, Kayode Alonge, acknowledged the resilience demonstrated by manufacturers despite the country’s difficult operating environment.
He, however, urged governments at all levels to address longstanding challenges affecting the sector, including:
- High energy costs
- Multiple taxation
- Insecurity
- Poor infrastructure
- Limited access to affordable financing
Alonge also called for the institutionalisation of the Nigeria First Policy, saying greater patronage of locally manufactured products would stimulate industrial growth, create jobs and strengthen the nation’s economy.
While commending the FCT Administration for ongoing infrastructure projects, he appealed for urgent improvements to roads, electricity and water supply within the Idu Industrial District, one of Abuja’s major manufacturing hubs.
AI Reshaping Manufacturing Worldwide
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming global manufacturing through predictive maintenance, intelligent quality control, robotics, production planning and supply chain optimisation.
Experts believe that wider adoption of these technologies could help Nigerian manufacturers improve efficiency, reduce waste, lower operating costs and compete more effectively in regional and international markets.
As digital transformation accelerates globally, industry stakeholders increasingly view investment in AI and smart manufacturing technologies as essential for the long-term competitiveness of Nigeria’s industrial sector.