The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Nura Abba Rimi, has reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering growth and sustainability in Nigeria’s printing and publishing industry. Represented by the Deputy Director of Industrial Development, Mrs. Olumuyiwa Abosede Ajayii-Ade, the Minister made this declaration recently at the opening ceremony of the International Paper, Printing, and Publishing Expo (IPPPEX), held in Abuja.
In her speech, Mrs. Ajayi-Ade highlighted the critical role of the printing industry in Nigeria’s economic development, describing it as a vital sector with significant potential for job creation and innovation.
“The printing and publishing industry serves as a cornerstone for the dissemination of knowledge and information, contributing to the educational, cultural, and economic growth of our nation,” she noted.
The Deputy Director emphasized the government’s resolve to promote local content development by encouraging stakeholders to prioritize local production. She urged printers and publishers to adopt innovative technologies to meet global standards while maintaining affordability and accessibility for Nigerian consumers.
“The government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. This includes supporting policies that encourage local production, reduce import dependency, and foster innovation in the printing and publishing industry,” she added.
Mrs. Ajayi-Ade called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including academia, industry practitioners, and regulatory bodies, to address the challenges facing the sector. She identified areas requiring immediate attention, such as access to affordable raw materials, eco-friendly practices, and funding opportunities to support industry expansion.
Recognizing the environmental impact of printing activities, the Permanent Secretary’s representative advocated for a shift towards sustainable practices. She encouraged stakeholders to explore eco-friendly materials and technologies to align with global sustainability goals.
The Deputy Director praised the organizers of IPPPEX for providing a platform to showcase innovation and facilitate discussions on the future of the industry. She expressed optimism that the insights and solutions generated from the event would help unlock the untapped potential of the Nigerian printing and publishing industry.
The address resonated with industry players, reaffirming the government’s commitment to advancing the sector through policy support, innovation, and collaboration. The event, which drew stakeholders from across the country, underscored the need for a unified approach to drive growth and sustainability in Nigeria’s printing and publishing landscape.
