The National President of Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Chief Solomon Daniel Vongfa, has emphasized the importance of supporting small scale industrialists to achieve rapid economic growth through job creation and self-reliance in Nigeria. He made this statement ahead of the 35th national convention of the association scheduled to hold in Abuja this December. According to Vongfa, most countries that have grown their economies have reduced their reliance on government by promoting private sector growth.
Vongfa noted that Nigeria, blessed with natural and human resources, cannot be left behind in the growing trend of promoting private sector growth. He commended Zamkah technologies Limited as strategic consultants and convention coordinators, and stated that credible stakeholders, industrialists, and development partners across the globe are being contacted to participate in the shared vision of the organization in the overall interest of Nigeria. The convention, themed "transforming Small Industries for a Competitive Nigeria," aims to bring together industrialists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss ways to promote small scale industries.
The convention, scheduled to hold on December 1, is expected to attract industrialists, MSMEs, government leaders, development partners, and private-sector institutions. Preparations for the event are intensifying, with one month to go. Vongfa stated that the convention is not just a gathering but an opportunity to positively impact the economy. The event will feature a National Industrial Dialogue and Business Convention, bringing public and private-sector stakeholders together to examine issues affecting Nigerian enterprises.
The convention will address challenges facing Nigerian businesses, including access to finance, energy costs, technology adoption, market access, standards, productivity, skills development, and global competitiveness. Vongfa expressed hope that the convention will provide a national platform for practical engagement on how small industries can play a stronger role in economic transformation, employment creation, and local value addition. The event will also feature leadership inauguration, awards, and a convention magazine.
NASSI has begun reaching out to key institutions and partners for participation in policy discussions, technical sessions, enterprise clinics, exhibitions, business linkages, and other areas of collaboration. Particular attention is being given to strengthening relationships between Nigerian small industries and organizations capable of supporting them through financing, standards, and certification. The association is also engaging its sister organizations within the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria.
The association aims to strengthen private-sector participation and ensure that discussions at the Convention reflect the realities confronting manufacturers, employers, chambers of commerce, small and medium enterprises, and indigenous industrialists. Vongfa stated that NASSI believes that stronger coordination among government, organised private-sector institutions, development partners, financiers, regulators, technology providers, and industrial associations can create more effective pathways for enterprise growth and industrial competitiveness.
The convention is being organised under the campaign message "Small Industries. Stronger Nigeria," reflecting NASSI's position that the competitiveness of Nigeria's economy is closely connected to the strength, productivity, and sustainability of its indigenous enterprises and small-scale industries. With the event just a month away, stakeholders are expected to brainstorm and provide a way forward for the growth of small scale industries in Nigeria.
Key points
- NASSI president outlines plans to boost economy through small scale industrialists
- 35th national convention of NASSI scheduled to hold in Abuja this December
- Convention aims to promote small scale industries for economic growth and job creation
