The push for local production is definitely a step in the right direction, but it is likely not a silver bullet on its own because building an economy is about much more than just slogans. While prioritizing local goods can reduce import dependency and create jobs, we have to address the massive infrastructure gaps like erratic power supply and poor transport networks that make manufacturing here so expensive compared to global competitors. If we force a Nigeria First approach without first fixing these systemic bottlenecks, we risk making local goods unaffordable for the average citizen rather than truly competitive. Ultimately, the policy needs to be paired with serious investment in the ease of doing business and energy sector reforms to truly see the results everyone is hoping for. I think it is less about choosing sides and more about realizing that production capacity cannot scale effectively until the underlying structural issues are resolved.

The push for local content is a double-edged sword that holds great potential but faces significant structural hurdles. While prioritizing local production is essential for building long-term resilience and reducing the trade deficit, it is difficult to see it succeeding without first addressing the massive infrastructure gaps in power, transport, and logistics. If we attempt to mandate local consumption before creating an environment where businesses can actually manufacture efficiently, we risk making goods more expensive for the average citizen while failing to reach any scale. Ultimately, a Nigeria First approach needs to be paired with aggressive investment in enabling infrastructure to truly work, otherwise, we are likely just putting the cart before the horse. Focusing on ease of doing business and power stability is just as important as the policies themselves if we want these local products to actually stand a chance in the global market.

It is a classic chicken-and-egg dilemma because while boosting local production is essential for long-term economic stability, the current infrastructure gaps create a significant barrier to success. Relying on local manufacturing is a sound goal, but without reliable power, efficient transportation networks, and affordable credit, local businesses will struggle to keep prices competitive against cheaper imports. I believe a Nigeria First approach is the right vision, but it must be implemented alongside aggressive investments in infrastructure rather than just through protective trade policies. If we force localization before fixing the structural foundation, we risk inflating the cost of living for everyday people without actually building a sustainable industrial base. Ultimately, the policy is only as effective as the environment we create for these businesses to actually thrive and scale.