By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Federal Government has urged Nigerian-owned companies to fully leverage the Nigeria First Policy to strengthen local production and reduce the country’s dependence on imported goods and services. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, made the appeal when he received the Managing Director and Founder of Solewant Group, Solomon Ewanehi, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
Akume said the Tinubu administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports the growth of indigenous businesses. He noted that the Nigeria First Policy is already improving local capacity and broadening economic opportunities.
“This administration is determined to ensure Nigerian companies flourish,” Akume said.
“The Nigeria First Policy is yielding positive results, and we want more indigenous firms to take advantage of it so we can reduce our dependence on imported products and services.”
The SGF commended Solewant Group for expanding into steel pipe manufacturing, metal fabrication and specialized coating solutions—sectors where international oil companies have reduced their footprint.
“Your investment shows that local companies can fill critical gaps created by IOC divestments,” he said.
“This is the time for Nigerian firms to lead. Reducing imports and expanding local capacity is key to building Nigeria’s industrial future.”
Speaking earlier, Ewanehi said Solewant is increasing its footprint across Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain by producing steel pipes, coating materials and coated pipe products for the domestic and African markets. He said the company’s efforts align with the Federal Government’s directive to the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and industry stakeholders to boost national crude oil production.
“We are working in line with the government’s marching order to support initiatives that will significantly increase crude oil output,” Ewanehi said.
“Our goal is to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial capability and expand our contribution across Africa.”
Ewanehi also briefed the SGF on Solewant’s preparations to host the 9th Africa Energy Summit, scheduled for Nov. 27–28, 2025, in Port Harcourt. He said the summit will bring experts from across Africa and beyond to explore strategies for improving crude oil productivity and enhancing the continent’s competitiveness.
“The summit will help us deepen conversations on energy security and productivity so Africa can bridge the gap with the rest of the world,” he said.
