By Joy Onu, Abuja
In a decisive move to accelerate industrialisation, the Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee to coordinate the forthcoming International Industrialisation initiative, set for June 29 to July 12, 2026, in Abuja.
The committee, unveiled by the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Owan Enoh, is tasked with translating Nigeria’s industrial ambitions into tangible results. Sen. Enoh emphasised the need for value addition, increased production, and expanded export capacity as central to transitioning the nation from a resource-dependent economy to a fully industrialised one.
“Industrial policy must deliver real results—production is the backbone of national growth, and this committee will ensure we move from plans to measurable impact,” he said, stressing the importance of collaboration across ministries, departments, and agencies. Members are expected to deliver outcomes in job creation, investment attraction, enterprise development, and export expansion in line with the government’s broader economic agenda.
Mrs. Muyiwa Ajayi, Director of the Industrial Development Department at the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, described the initiative as a critical step toward improving efficiency and coordination in Nigeria’s industrial sector. She said the committee will ensure seamless planning and execution, while enhancing the country’s competitiveness in regional and global markets.
Dr. Robert Agah, Secretary General of the Industrial and Commercialisation Awareness Initiative (ICAI), highlighted the transformative potential of the programme. He described it as more than an event—a long-term platform designed to position Nigeria as a global hub for investment, innovation, and industrial excellence.
The 2026 initiative is expected to attract investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders worldwide, showcasing Nigeria’s industrial and agricultural potential. Dr. Agah noted that the programme will foster trade partnerships, support small and medium-scale enterprises, and require strong policy alignment, institutional backing, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
The launch of the committee signals the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to building a resilient, diversified economy capable of delivering sustainable growth and long-term industrial development.
