By Charles Nwoke
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Zambia, Nwanne Ominyi, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for banning imported goods in Nigeria. He described the decision as a strategic move to strengthen local industries and safeguard the nation’s economy.
Ominyi, who now serves as President of the League of African Ambassadors, made the statement on Wednesday via his official X handle. He commended Tinubu for prioritising local production and protecting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative.
“Good job, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for taking a bold step to protect local industries and manufacturing sectors by banning imported goods which can be produced in the country,” Ominyi said. “In so doing, Mr. President protects ACFTA goods.”
The ban aligns with Tinubu’s “Nigeria First” policy. The administration aims to boost domestic production, reduce reliance on foreign goods, conserve foreign exchange, and create jobs. The policy is also expected to drive the nation’s import-substitution and industrialisation agenda.
Key stakeholders, including the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) and the Coalition of South-South Chambers of Commerce, have expressed support for the policy. They believe it will uplift local businesses such as Dangote Refinery and Innoson Motors.
Ominyi also called on the Nigerian government to exempt goods produced in Africa. He stressed the importance of unity under the AfCFTA framework, saying, “Africa is one family.”
Meanwhile, public opinion on social media remains divided. While many welcome the ban as a necessary step toward economic growth, others raise concerns about potential price hikes and the need for stronger infrastructure to support local manufacturing.
