PeakNews Online
Arepo, Ogun State, August 10, 2024 — The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has committed to bolstering the market presence of Coleman Wires and Cables across Africa. This announcement was made by MAN’s Director General, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, during a recent tour of Coleman’s factories in Arepo and Sagamu, Ogun State.
Ajayi-Kadir expressed satisfaction with the scale and capabilities of Coleman’s facilities, noting their potential to meet both local and regional demand. He commended the company’s operational efficiency, which he said reflects positively on Nigeria’s industrial ambitions.
Looking ahead, Ajayi-Kadir revealed that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Business Council is set to launch by December 2024. The new council aims to provide a platform for the private sector to engage with policymakers and address economic challenges affecting African nations. One of its key priorities will be to overcome barriers to cross-border value chains.
“The president of the business council will engage with heads of state and ministers to tackle crucial issues,” Ajayi-Kadir stated. He highlighted that while various regional protocols support economic activities, many remain politically motivated.
He praised Coleman Industries for its resilience and independent operation of gas-powered electricity despite sector challenges such as smuggling and dumping.
In response, Coleman’s Managing Director, Mr. George Onafowokan, expressed gratitude for MAN’s support. Onafowokan emphasized Coleman’s ambition to not only serve the Nigerian market but to expand into other African countries and beyond. He also pointed out obstacles such as high tariffs and insufficient government support that hinder market entry.
“If other countries can trade in Nigeria, we should be able to access their markets as well. It’s essential to address these entry barriers,” Onafowokan said.
Looking towards the future, Coleman plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary by 2025, highlighting its commitment to long-term growth and succession planning. Onafowokan stressed the importance of expanding the company’s capacity despite industry challenges and argued that domestic companies like Coleman are better positioned to create a lasting legacy in Nigeria compared to foreign investments.
He called for further support from MAN, particularly in terms of fiscal policy, to help domestic manufacturers thrive.
