The Federal Government has inaugurated the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG) to fast-track Nigeria’s industrialization and economic transformation.
The group aligns with the Presidential Council on Industrial Renewal Roadmap and aims to drive economic transformation through strategic policies and stakeholder engagement. It also aims to drive industrial expansion, generate jobs, and stimulate economic growth through strategic policies and collaboration.
At the event, Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, John Owan Enoh, emphasized the critical role of the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG) in addressing Nigeria’s industrial challenges and unlocking future potential. He highlighted that the group’s mandate revolves around stakeholder engagement, evidence-based policy formulation, and consistent implementation to drive industrial transformation.
Senator Enoh noted that Nigeria possesses abundant natural resources, a dynamic youthful population, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, positioning the country for significant industrial growth. He outlined the IRWG’s core focus as “Rejuvenating, Innovating, and Elevating Nigeria’s Industrial Future” stressing that the initiative aims to revive dormant industries, empower emerging manufacturers, and integrate Nigeria into the global industrial economy.
He further emphasized that the initiative is not just about ambitious goals but about achieving measurable and transformative outcomes that will reshape Nigeria’s industrial landscape. He called on stakeholders to support the IRWG’s mission, emphasizing that it is a collective national effort requiring collaboration and innovation to drive industrial growth.
In his remarks, former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, stressed the importance of policy continuity and sustainable industrial growth, referencing the failed 2014 Industrial Revolution Plan due to inconsistent implementation. He urged deliberate action, citing China, Germany, and the U.S. as models of successful industrial policies. Aganga highlighted Nigeria’s wealth of natural resources but emphasized the need to transition from raw material exports to value-added manufacturing for greater economic benefits.
Aganga urged industry leaders and business executives to view the IRWG as a national priority rather than just another initiative. He emphasized that its success would be measured not by policies alone but by the reopening of factories, job creation, and overall economic growth.
He stressed the need for clear execution strategies, measurable milestones, strict adherence to timelines, and strong accountability frameworks. He also highlighted the importance of continuous engagement with both local and international investors.
Describing the IRWG as a decade-defining initiative, Aganga called on all stakeholders to support the group’s mission and help position Nigeria as a global leader in industrial development.
