BREAKING: Tinubu Unveils Bold Policy To Boost Local Goods And Services In Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu has approved the “Renewed Hope Nigeria First” policy, a strategic initiative requiring all federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to prioritize Nigerian goods, services, and expertise when allocating public funds.

This move is designed to refocus government spending on supporting local industries and reducing dependence on imports.

The policy was introduced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who addressed State House correspondents following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Monday.

Idris explained that the policy’s primary aim is to ensure that Nigeria is at the heart of every expenditure, with public funds directed towards Nigerian products and services whenever possible. “This puts Nigeria at the center of every kobo the government spends,” he emphasized.

To enforce this policy, an Executive Order will be issued shortly, granting it full legal force across all government operations. The policy mirrors the “America First” doctrine introduced by former US President Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of local content and economic growth through empowering Nigerian industries.

“From now on, any business conducted by the government must prioritize Nigerians. If a local option exists, there is no reason to import,” Idris stated.

Under this directive, unless a local alternative is unavailable, government agencies must avoid purchasing foreign goods or services. The Attorney-General has been assigned the responsibility of drafting an Executive Order to ensure the policy is legally binding and enforceable.

The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) will oversee the revision and enforcement of new procurement guidelines that favor local manufacturers and service providers. This includes establishing a Local Content Compliance Framework to maintain a register of qualified Nigerian suppliers engaged by the government.

Furthermore, MDAs will be prohibited from procuring foreign goods or services already available locally unless they obtain a written waiver from the BPP. Contracts will also include provisions for technology transfer, local production, or skills development in cases where no Nigerian option exists, similar to the quota system in the Sugar Master Plan that rewards firms for investing in local production.

MDAs have been instructed to immediately audit their 2025 procurement plans and submit revised versions to align with the new policy. The directive firmly states that no procurement of foreign goods or services already available in Nigeria can proceed without justification and a waiver from the BPP.

“The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has been tasked with drafting an Executive Order to formalize these resolutions into law,” Idris concluded.