By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ogun State Branch, convened on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, to mark their 38th Annual General Meeting. This prestigious event, which brought together industry leaders and dignitaries from across the nation, shedding light on the pivotal role of the MAN in shaping Nigeria’s economic, industrial, labor, and social policies, was also graced by the presence of notable sponsors, including Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited.
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, commonly referred to as MAN, serves as a cornerstone for manufacturers, offering a platform to influence key economic decisions within the country. Headquartered in Lagos, MAN has continued to deepen its advocacy and forge partnerships with both national and international economic entities. Some of its objectives are to play a proactive role in the formulation and execution of policies vital to the nation’s growth.
Distinguished guests and executives graced the event, including:
Otunba Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
Alhaji Dr. Kamorudeen Ibitoye Yusuf, Vice President of the Western Zone Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
Mr. George Onafowokan, Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Ogun State Branch.
Mr. Joseph Emoleke, Assistant Director of the Membership Service Division of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
Notably, the 38th Annual General Meeting garnered support from 22 sponsors, among them, Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited. This company has carved a prominent niche in the manufacturing sector, producing a range of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. Their flagship products, Coco Samba and Sea Don’s Schnapps have delighted consumers and significantly contributed to the market.
Samuel Oluseyi Oguntade, the General Manager of Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited, who represents the CEO of the company, Comrade Olufemi Ajadi, emphasized the paramount importance of the manufacturing industry in driving a nation’s economic growth. He underscored its role in generating employment opportunities, enhancing productivity, and bolstering government revenue through taxation.
However, Mr. Oguntade highlighted a significant challenge faced by the manufacturing sector in 2022—foreign exchange issues. The industry heavily depends on foreign exchange for sourcing raw materials, which posed hurdles to its contribution to Nigeria’s GDP. Central to this issue were multiple taxes and the menace of road touts.
Mr. Oguntade expressed concern that vehicles transporting goods and personnel for manufacturers faced harassment from various entities demanding undisclosed taxes and levies. Often claiming to represent local government authorities, these touts resorted to violence when drivers resisted, resulting in damage to both individuals and vehicles.
In a plea to the Government and the Joint Tax Board, Oguntade urged them to intervene with actionable resolutions to curtail these illegal road taxes, fostering a more conducive environment for the manufacturing industry to thrive.
Additionally, Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited was represented at the event by several key personnel, including Miss. Adegboyega Bukola (Admin Manager), Miss. Sanni Anuoluwapo (Customer Relations Officer), Mr. Eziedi Augustine (Transport and Logistics Manager), Honourable Kehinde Teluwo (Real Estate Development Partner at Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited), and Barrister Isaac Izunya, head of the legal team of Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited
The 38th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Branch, stands as a testament to the industry’s resilience and determination to overcome challenges while advocating for a brighter economic future for Nigeria.