The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) on Thursday held its 2025 Conference, Exhibition, and 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The event, which attracted key players in Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing sectors, was graced by the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning the state as a hub for industrial growth and investment.
In his remarks, Governor Diri expressed delight at hosting the national conference in Yenagoa, describing it as a milestone for Bayelsa’s economic diversification agenda. He assured investors that the state government is ready to collaborate with the private sector to unlock its vast industrial potential.
“We are delighted to welcome the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria to Bayelsa State. This is a land with immense potential and promise. And I believe as you keep coming here, you will never regret coming into Bayelsa for investments,” the governor stated.
He identified opportunities in the blue and marine economy, agriculture, and particularly manufacturing, noting that Bayelsa’s improving infrastructure, peaceful environment, and investor-friendly policies provide a solid foundation for industrial development.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye commended Governor Diri for his administration’s strategic investments in science and technical education, power, road infrastructure, and security. He emphasized that these areas are critical catalysts for trade, innovation, and sustainable industrialization.
Dr. Okoye urged manufacturers to explore emerging opportunities in the Niger Delta, stressing that regional partnerships and local value addition are key to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
In his goodwill message, the President of MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye, acknowledged the Bayelsa State Government for hosting the event and reaffirmed MAN’s commitment to promoting industrial competitiveness and policy dialogue that supports local manufacturers.
Other dignitaries present included the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; representatives of the Ministers of Industry, Investment and Regional Development; MAN Director General, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir; Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe; Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Ebieri Jones; as well as captains of industry and top government officials.
The conference featured an exhibition of locally made products and discussions on strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing ecosystem.
