Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Advocates for Balanced Regulatory Policies, Others

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on regulators to update their policies to ensure fair protection for manufacturers while safeguarding consumer interests.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, Director General of the Association, who made the call in a statement issued in Lagos, emphasized the need for intentional steps to protect manufacturers from the adverse effects of social media defamation and ensure fairness for all stakeholders.

Commenting on the Impact of Social Media Defamation, Ajayi-Kadir highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding manufacturing concerns from the negative impacts of social media defamation, which can significantly affect their businesses and even threaten their existence.

DG MAN harped on the need for policies that recognize the challenges faced by manufacturers in Nigeria and encourage consumer patronage and empathy.

He also emphasized the necessity of establishing protective measures for manufacturers to prevent unverified claims about locally manufactured products.

He acknowledged the consumers’ right to voice legitimate complaints through appropriate channels, but emphasized the significance of holding consumers accountable for spreading false information about products and attempting to try local manufacturers in the court of public opinion.

Ajayi-Kadir cited a recent experience involving a member company, Erisco Foods, and an incident with a dissatisfied customer, stressing that there is the need for equal protection for manufacturers and consumer rights.

“The case underscored the importance of diligent investigation carried out by the Lagos state consumer protection agency and the standards organization of Nigeria in exonerating the manufacturer of the said product. Kudos must be given to both agencies for unravelling the truth of the case,” he added.

He highlighted the challenging business environment in Nigeria, adding that the association acknowledged the critical role of consumer patronage in maintaining the viability of local manufacturing businesses.

The association decried the impact of unverified statements on businesses, even when product validation confirms their quality, and urged government agencies to take deliberate steps to protect manufacturers while promoting consumer accountability.

Ajayi-Kadir emphasized on the need to support Nigerian manufacturers and elevate the perception of locally made products, while calling for a shift in consumer behaviour towards patronizing domestic goods and showcasing their quality to the global market.

The association also underscored the importance of mutual accountability between manufacturers and consumers to foster economic growth in Nigeria.

Ajayi-Kadir stated further that, MAN advocacy underscores the importance of balanced regulatory policies that protect manufacturers while upholding consumer rights, noting that this ultimately is aiming to foster a conducive environment for sustainable business growth in Nigeria.

“As a responsible association, MAN is committed to ensuring that the case is resolved amicably,” DG MAN added.