Abdullahi Hashim
Abdullahi Hashim, a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), says the recently approved ‘Nigeria First’ policy will encourage innovation in the country.
On Monday, the federal executive council (FEC) approved the ‘Nigeria First’ policy to prioritise locally made goods and services in all government procurements.
Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, said the policy would be backed by an executive order, with the attorney-general expected to prepare the necessary legal framework.
The minister said the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) will review existing procurement guidelines to favour local producers and create a national database of certified Nigerian manufacturers.
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In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hashim, who is a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), commended the federal government and President Bola Tinubu for putting the policy in place.
He described the policy as a “palpable initiative that will indelibly shape our nation’s economic trajectory”.
“By prioritizing locally-made products in government procurement, you are fostering a culture of self-reliance, boosting internal productivity, and promoting economic growth,” the statement reads.
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Hashim said the implementation of the policy would accelerate job creation, improve technical competence, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base.
“This visionary policy will have far-reaching impacts on economic empowerment, which means Mr. President is injecting lives into our economy, creating jobs, and stimulating innovation.
“This policy will help boost Business Confidence. This will encourage investments in local products and will enhance entrepreneurship confidence amongst the business players because it will help us reclaim our economic sovereignty and empower our future sustenance.
“Additionally, the FPP will give tremendous aid to Human Liberation, by breaking free from the foreign importation of certain goods, we build liberation and promote self-determination.
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“Mr. President efforts on this policy will guarantee a sustainable development in our dealings, because, the policy aligns with global best practices, promoting sustainable development, and reducing our carbon footprint.”
He asked public and private sector stakeholders to ensure full compliance with the policy for Nigeria’s growth.
Hashim added that the policy would have a transformative impact on the Nigerian economy.
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