Industry experts have pointed out the urgent need for enhanced quality control procedures in Nigeria’s industrial sector to boost competitiveness and economic growth. This is particularly necessary to establish a good standard for an industry which is perceived as a key factor in unlocking Nigeria’s economic prosperity, as stated by Eloka Anene, Chairman of Linea Group of Companies. The experts emphasized that substandard production methods and uneven product quality continue to be major obstacles keeping the nation from realizing its full industrial potential in both local and international markets.
As a crucial part of industrial and Manufacturing operations, quality control ensures that products adhere to rules and specifications. However, many industries in Nigeria struggle to maintain consistency in production due to lack of Investment in contemporary technology, poor regulatory control, and inadequate infrastructure. In addition to impeding the expansion of domestic companies, these shortcomings also restrict the nation’s capacity to compete internationally and poses risks for features initiatives, especially with the framework of agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) in sight.
Dire consequences of poor quality control in the sector.
A lack of quality control has frequently been shown to be a recipe for catastrophe within the industrial sector, leading to devastating events with far-reaching effects. In the Construction industry, building collapses in Lagos and other cities across the country are often attributed to the use of inferior materials and inadequate quality assurance procedures. Generally, the industrial sector’s lack of quality control is a ticking time bomb that jeopardizes confidence, safety, and profitability within the country.
Beyond the domestic ramifications, experts pointed out that Nigerian exports are frequently rejected in international markets due to low-quality items, especially in areas like processed goods, textiles, and agriculture. Addressing these challenges, the expert stressed that adopting robust quality control systems can significantly enhance the credibility and competitiveness of Nigerian goods. Associations like Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) had also previously called for the establishment of a robust industrial policy that can steer the country’s industrial development.
Key experts recommendations to boost quality control.
One of the key recommendations is the need for industries to invest in advanced Technology and automation, which can minimize errors and ensure consistency in production. Subpar products would be less common if producers could better monitor and regulate manufacturing processes through the integration of quality management software and contemporary technology. The expert also called on regulatory bodies to enforce more stringent adherence to quality standards in order to improve their supervision capabilities. Another major topic of discussion was training and capacity building.
The government’s role in supporting quality control initiatives have also been underscored. By providing incentives for industries to upgrade their facilities and implement quality management systems, the government can create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Public policies that promote research and development, as well as access to Finance for small and medium enterprises, were identified as critical components of this effort. They further concluded by emphasizing that improved quality control is not just a necessity for boosting Export performance but also for strengthening the domestic market.
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For Nigeria to achieve its industrialization goals and establish itself as a global economic player, a Culture of excellence must be ingrained at every level of production. Quality control mechanisms, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery, are essential to ensuring consistency and competitiveness. When industries adhere to these standards, they not only enhance the perception of Nigerian goods but also create long-term Economic Stability by fostering trust among consumers and trading partners alike.