The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, emphasized that Nigerians would embrace made-in-Nigeria products only if they are competitive in both quality and pricing. This statement was made during a visit to his palace in Benin City by Otunba Francis Meshioye, the president of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
In a statement released by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin, the monarch expressed concern over the proliferation of counterfeit imported goods, particularly pharmaceutical products, brought into Nigeria by unpatriotic merchants.
Addressing the challenges faced in importation and exportation, the Oba highlighted the need for significant efforts from the federal government. He stressed the importance of advocating for the patronage of made-in-Nigeria goods while acknowledging that for such advocacy to be effective, local products must compete favorably in terms of quality and pricing.
The Oba urged relevant government agencies to tackle the issue of counterfeit drugs and other factors that facilitate illicit trade. He called for sustained intervention to enhance confidence in local pharmaceutical industries and promote their patronage, emphasizing the necessity for governments at all levels to implement strategies to boost productivity and reduce dependency on crude oil export revenue for economic sustenance.
In response, MAN President Francis Meshioye sought the monarch’s support in driving advocacy for made-in-Nigeria products, aiming to enhance local content for sustainable economic growth.
Timipre Abowei