The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, has called on the Federal Government to urgently review the procurement process for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport perimeter fencing and security surveillance project in Lagos.
Ajayi-Kadir stressed that the project must align with Executive Orders 003 and 005, alongside the Nigeria First Policy, which mandate prioritisation of locally produced goods and services in government contracts. According to him, indigenous manufacturers have both the capacity and technical expertise to deliver fencing materials that meet international standards, making it unnecessary to import.
He explained that while foreign manufacturers may be competent, relying on them undermines local industries, robs the country of jobs for young people and skilled workers, drains foreign exchange, reduces government tax revenues, and weakens Nigeria’s industrial base. He recalled a similar case where fencing materials for an airport project were imported from South Africa, despite MAN’s advocacy, a decision that discouraged local manufacturers and contradicted government’s local content policies.
Ajayi-Kadir described the Lagos airport fencing project as a chance for the current administration to prove that “Nigeria First” is not just a slogan but a concrete government action. He appealed to the authorities to ensure local manufacturers are given priority, noting that such a move would strengthen the economy, boost confidence in Nigerian industries, and show commitment to inclusive growth.
He emphasised that MAN’s position is not about influencing contract awards but a patriotic call to align procurement with national interest for the collective good.
