The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) has made a compelling case for private-sector operators to fully embrace the federal government's Nigeria First Policy as a strategic tool for business expansion and strengthening the nation's economic foundation.
Virtual Session Explores Policy Opportunities
During a recent high-level virtual Knowledge Sharing Session held on 27 November 2025, NECA reinforced its dedication to improving business competitiveness through active advocacy and collaboration with government bodies. The event, titled "Nigeria First Policy: Unlocking Opportunities for Businesses and the Economy," attracted senior executives from various industries across the country.
The session provided a comprehensive analysis of the Nigeria First Policy, which aims to prioritize domestic manufacturing, increase the involvement of Nigerian companies in government procurement processes, and strengthen backward integration throughout different sectors.
Public-Private Partnership Crucial for Success
According to Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of NECA, the policy's effectiveness hinges on robust cooperation between the public and private sectors. "The complete benefits of the Nigeria First Policy can only be achieved if businesses actively support locally manufactured goods, while the government persists in implementing reforms that reduce import reliance and stabilize the Naira," Oyerinde emphasized.
He further stressed the critical need for establishing a more competitive environment that attracts investors, pointing out that domestic enterprises must take the leading role in advancing industrialization and adding value to raw materials.
Government Representatives Outline Policy Framework
During the session, officials from government agencies detailed the policy's goals and operational structure. Olumuyiwa Ajayiade, Director of the Industrial Development Department at the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, clarified that the Nigeria First Policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on industrialization, enhancing local content, and safeguarding against global supply chain disruptions.
Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, provided specifics about the policy's local procurement and content requirements. He confirmed that implementation guidelines are in their final stages and will be distributed to NECA to enable deeper engagement with private sector stakeholders.
"The policy is designed to empower Nigerian businesses, improve product quality standards, and boost global competitiveness," Adedokun stated.
Business Community Welcomes Policy Potential
From the corporate perspective, Victoria Uwadoka, Chairperson of NECA's Committee on corporate communications and public affairs experts, highlighted the significant opportunities the policy creates for Nigerian enterprises. She emphasized that active participation could speed up business growth, generate employment, and drive national economic transformation.
The collective message from the session was clear: the Nigeria First Policy represents a pivotal opportunity for Nigerian businesses to drive economic recovery and sustainable development through increased local production and reduced dependency on imports.
