FCT deputy minister Mariya Mahmoud has urged manufacturers to embrace smart technology to improve productivity, reduce costs, and remain competitive in the face of economic challenges.

Ms Mahmoud said this in Abuja on Thursday through her special assistant on Social Development Secretariat, Helen Zamani, at the 13th Annual General Meeting and Public Lecture of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Abuja/Nasarawa/Niger Branch.

Ms Mahmoud called on manufacturers to adopt capital restructuring, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and automation in their operations.

The minister said the FCT administration was committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses through massive investments in roads, water supply, security and urban renewal.

Ms Mahmoud also stressed the need for stronger public-private collaboration to boost local content, innovation, and skills development. She commended MAN for its steadfast advocacy for Nigeria’s industrial growth.

The branch chairman, Kayode Alonge, urged governments at all levels to support the sector by tackling high energy costs, multiple taxation, insecurity, poor infrastructure and limited access to affordable financing.

While listing the resilience of manufacturers across Abuja, Nasarawa, and Niger states, Alonge urged the federal government to institutionalise the ‘Nigeria First Policy’ to promote locally made goods.

He commended the FCT Administration for its ongoing infrastructure development drive in the territory but appealed for urgent repairs to roads, water supply, and electricity at the Idu Industrial District.

(NAN)