THE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY OF ANAMBRA STATE
For a country to be classified as developed and a state to be recognized as productive, it must be efficiently well-grounded in manufacturing, production, and exporting rather than relying on the imported products of another country. Today, most countries in South East Asia like China, Japan, South Korea, and most Western countries are regarded on a higher scale than others due to their maximum contribution in manufacturing products from high-tech machines down to domestic home wear. In Nigeria, the level of manufacturing is low due to the low level of participation in the 36 states and the harsh living conditions today. But things seem to be different in Anambra state as producing one’s own product despite the cost-effectiveness is a progress in the business world.
Take for instance the rate of favorable attention given to the Nnewi and Onitsha in Anambra state by local, international bodies, and investors for being the Commercial and Industrial hub of Nigeria.
In these two cities rests the shoulders of undisputed manufacturing prowess that lifts Anambra state’s internally generated revenue every second. In 2021, the Nigerian Bureau of statistics disclosed that only Anambra, Lagos, and Rivers can survive without the support of the Federal Government with the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) grossing higher than other states of the federation. Note that these three states have the highest number of manufacturing industries with Anambra taking the lead in the highest number of indigenous manufacturers and products. in the country.
Anambra state is most at times referred to as the Japan of Africa. Her manufacturing prowess has no limitations or end. Who would have ever thought that a made-in-Nigeria car would ever exist or that made-in-Nigeria products will ever get as much recognition as it is today in Nigeria?
The manufacturers in Anambra state produce products like; Cars, spare parts, electrical cables, copper, wires, cement, PVC pipes, plastic chairs, tables, cans, bags, shoes, aluminum roofing sheets, windows, fertilizers, and chemical supplements, tissues, face wipes, serviette, stone coated roof tiles, zincs, quality foams, beer, malt drinks, soaps, batteries, clothes, etc.
The current Government of Anambra state is looking into actualizing 50 billion nairas yearly as Internally Generated Revenue. This means that more hands would be needed in this sector to ensure that the state generates adequate revenues into its coffers for effective growth and development.
By: Ifeoma Anidebe
