FEC Approves ‘Nigeria First’ Policy To Support Local Industry
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a new economic policy titled Nigeria First, aimed at prioritising locally manufactured goods and services in all government procurement processes.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement on Monday after the FEC meeting in Abuja. He said the policy would soon be backed by an executive order from President Bola Tinubu.
“This policy means Nigeria comes first in all procurement processes,” Idris said. “No foreign goods or devices that are already being produced locally will be procured without a clear and justified reason.”
He explained that the new approach is designed to foster a bold, confident, and distinctly Nigerian business culture, redirecting government spending to support domestic industries and workers.
“Going forward, Nigerian industry will take precedence in all procurement processes,” he added. “Where local supply falls short, contracts will be structured to build local capacity. Contractors will no longer act as intermediaries sourcing foreign goods while local factories struggle.”
The minister said the policy aligns with President Tinubu’s broader agenda to drive industrialisation, reduce dependence on foreign imports, and shield the economy from global disruptions.
As part of implementation, the FEC has directed the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to:
1. Revise and strictly enforce procurement guidelines that prioritise local content.
2. Develop a compliance framework to ensure adherence to the new policy.
3. Maintain a register of high-quality Nigerian manufacturers and service providers regularly engaged by the Federal Government.
4. Recall all procurement officers posted to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) back to the BPP to ensure streamlined oversight, without compromising efficiency.
The Nigeria First policy marks a significant shift in federal procurement strategy, with the government aiming to stimulate local industry and boost economic resilience through increased reliance on homegrown solutions.
