Nigeria launches programme for Country Partnership 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 growth in Nigeria.

Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, highlighted that the PCP aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reform agenda.

The initiative aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on primary exports while strengthening the manufacturing sector to boost economic diversification and job creation.

The PCP is expected to facilitate investments, enhance infrastructure, and support policies that promote industrial development. With UNIDO’s expertise, the program will focus on key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, to ensure long-term economic sustainability.

A key component of the initiative is the Industrial Revitalization Working Group (IRWG), designed to accelerate industrial reforms. The PCP will focus on agro-industrial transformation, SME development, digital innovation, and green transition, with the Nigerian government committing 14.3% of the $174.6 million budget and UNIDO mobilizing the remainder.

Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, described the initiative as a catalyst for job creation, skill development, and technological advancement.

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

The signing ceremony gathered government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners, with donor nations like Japan and Germany reaffirming their support.

Ambassador Nura Abba Rimi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, expressed gratitude to stakeholders, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to translating potential into measurable economic gains.