Ndume backs Tinubu’s import ban, says it’ll boost local economy

Ali Ndume, the senator representing Borno south, has expressed support for the federal government’s decision to ban the importation of goods that can be produced locally.

The lawmaker described the move as a “bold initiative” by President Bola Tinubu to boost the economy and empower local entrepreneurs.

Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, announced the decision in Abuja on Monday while briefing State House correspondents after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting.

The minister also announced that the federal government has restricted expatriates coming into Nigeria to execute jobs that could be handled by local contractors and artisans.

According to Idris, the restriction would only be waived if there is a convincing justification and expressed permission from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).

He said the policy is part of the new “renewed hope Nigeria first” framework aimed at strengthening the domestic economy and promoting local content.

In a statement on Tuesday, Ndume said the ban, if properly implemented, would be a game-changer for indigenous businesses struggling to compete in a challenging economy.

“It is heartwarming to hear that President Tinubu has taken this bold decision to ban imported goods that can be produced locally,” the statement reads.

“This will be a major boost for indigenous businesses amid the slipping Nigerian economy.

“If implemented faithfully, it will shield our local producers striving to find their feet from being choked out of existence by established foreign investors who flood our market, unhindered, with goods that are cheaper and even substandard.

“With protection of local industries, there will be employment for our employable youths; the measure will also boost our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and the value of the naira will appreciate as there will be less strain on our foreign reserves since the demand for foreign exchange by importers of such foreign goods would drastically reduce.”

Ndume also urged the federal government to impose heavy taxes on foreign goods to discourage patronage and promote locally made alternatives.

On April 14, Ndume said Tinubu’s declaration of a national emergency on food security would help bring down the prices of food.