Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called on the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) to embrace artificial intelligence as part of efforts to boost productivity in the sector.
The governor, represented by Mr. Jude Ochei, a Director in the State Ministry of Trade and Investment, made the appeal during the 39th Annual General Meeting of the association in Asaba.
He noted that digitalization, green energy, and artificial intelligence are increasingly shaping global manufacturing, and urged manufacturers to adopt these technologies to enhance their output.
Oborevwori also highlighted the state government’s collaboration with the Bank of Industry on a ₦1 billion loan scheme aimed at promoting industrialization. He added that a bill on industrial safety would soon be passed to improve the protection of lives and property within the manufacturing sector.
Speaking at the event, the President of MAN, Mr. Francis Otunba, stated that the global economy is changing rapidly, with the manufacturing sector at the center of this transformation. He stressed that the Fourth Industrial Revolution has arrived, and MAN must take advantage of the opportunities it offers.
Otunba emphasized that digital innovation is now essential for survival and growth, saying it is the key to improving competitiveness, boosting productivity, and increasing the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. He also urged the Federal Government to discourage the importation of goods that can be produced locally, in order to reduce pressure on foreign exchange.
He encouraged manufacturers to adopt digital tools to streamline production, strengthen supply chains, and develop new products and services. He further called on MAN members to embrace innovation, invest in new technologies, train their workforce, and work with government, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to drive progress.
Also speaking, the Chairman of MAN’s Edo/Delta branch, Mr. Ehizogbe Osadolor, noted that automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence are being increasingly deployed to improve efficiency, cut costs, and enhance product quality.
However, he expressed concerns about challenges facing the sector, including the high cost of modern technology, worker resistance to change, and the need for training and skills development to keep up with advancements.
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