The Federal Government states that it is committed to driving regional industrial growth, deepening manufacturing capacity, and enhancing economic cooperation across West Africa. It endorsed the upcoming West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing and Trade Summit and Exhibition.
According to a statement, the FG, through its Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, signalled its endorsement of the summit scheduled to be held in Lagos in October 2025.
Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Enoh, said the Federal Government’s support for the Summit reflects Nigeria’s industrial agenda under President Bola Tinubu’s Nigeria First policy, which prioritises locally manufactured goods in government procurement.
Enoh remarked: “This commitment aligns with the mandate of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, highlighting the nation’s dedication to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and expanding trade opportunities across the continent.”
Similar policies are unfolding across West Africa. Ghana recently mandated the use of locally manufactured products in public procurement, while Senegal is implementing production-focused strategies backed by subsidies and a reliable power supply to grow industries such as textiles and food processing.
Dmg Nigeria events is organising the West Africa IMT Summit, themed “Accelerating West Africa’s Sustainable Industrial Revolution for Economic Prosperity,” and will take place from October 21 to 23, 2025, in Lagos. It is expected to bring together regional policymakers, industrial leaders, investors, development institutions and trade facilitators.
Enoh confirmed the government’s endorsement, saying, “The Ministry formally endorses and consents to collaborate with dmg Nigeria events in the successful organisation of the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade Summit and Exhibition 2025.
“The Ministry commends dmg Nigeria events’ efforts in promoting industrial, manufacturing and trade development across the West African Region. It looks forward to a successful partnership in delivering a high-impact Summit.”
Country Director, Nigeria and Portfolio Director, Energy for dmg Nigeria events, Wemimo Oyelana, described the government’s endorsement as a major boost for industrial development in the region, saying “As we witness Africa’s rise in global manufacturing and trade, the endorsement from the Ministry marks the beginning of the transformation required for real economic development and growth.
“It reinforces our shared commitment to accelerating industrial development, strengthening local manufacturing, increasing regional and international trade, and driving investment into the region.”
Organisers noted that the West Africa IMT 2025 Summit will serve as a platform for translating industrial policy into action. They added that the summit will host policy briefings, cross-border investment showcases, and technical sessions on infrastructure development, regulatory harmonisation and capacity building.
