Calling for investment incentives for manufacturers to boost production and the economy, Mrs. Ada Chukwudozie, the Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, South-East chapter, emphasized the importance of easy access to funds and raw materials for businesses.
She made these remarks during the South-East Manufacturers Stakeholders Engagement forum at the MAN Liaison Office in Onitsha, Anambra State. The event, themed ‘Access to finance and cheaper funding for SMEs in Nigeria,’ saw key players in the manufacturing sector in attendance, including the Director General of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN, Charles Odii.
During an interview with journalists, the MAN boss called on the Federal Government to subsidize raw material costs for manufacturers and address challenges like electricity supply.
She stressed the importance of empowering manufacturers at all government levels to foster economic growth and ensure currency stability.
She expressed hope for Nigeria’s future, citing collaborative efforts with Anambra and Enugu state governments to allocate funds to support businesses.
Commending the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, she highlighted the distribution of one million economic crop seedlings to households for long-term economic empowerment.
Advocating for government incentives to boost manufacturing output and create wealth and job opportunities, she also urged a focus on agriculture for food security.
In his address, the Anambra State Commissioner for Industry, Christian Udehchukwu, emphasized the availability of state funds to support small and medium enterprises.
He encouraged manufacturers and traders to set an example, noting the state’s commitment to improving access roads for their businesses.
Charles Odii, the DG of SMEDAN, discussed plans to collaborate with MAN on a local government-based manufacturing initiative and interventions to facilitate finance access.
Addressing the MANSA platform’s objectives, Maureen Mba highlighted its role in promoting customer-business relationships, reducing operational costs, and enhancing compliance.
The highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between MANSA and SMEDAN to facilitate increased production through access to funds.