Nigeria, UNIDO Partner to Boost Industrial Growth

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), has launched the Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) to drive sustainable industrial development in Nigeria.

Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, stated that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, which seeks to reduce dependence on raw material exports and strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

A key feature of the programme is the Industrial Revitalization Working Group (IRWG), which aims to accelerate industrial reforms.

The PCP will focus on agro-industrial transformation, SME development, digital innovation, and a transition to green energy.

The Nigerian government has committed 14.3% of the $174.6 million budget, while UNIDO will mobilize the remaining funds.

Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, described the initiative as a game-changer that will create jobs, enhance skills, and promote technological advancements.

UNIDO’s Director-General, Gerd Müller, hailed the agreement as a milestone in Nigeria-UNIDO collaboration, pledging technical support and investment facilitation.

UNIDO’s Director-General, Gerd Müller, Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget Senator and John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry

The signing ceremony was attended by government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners, with donor nations such as Japan and Germany reaffirming their support.

Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, expressed gratitude to stakeholders and assured that the Ministry remains committed to transforming Nigeria’s industrial potential into tangible economic growth.