The Oyo State Government has partnered with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) to sensitise its members on the proper payment of haulage fees.

The partnership is through the Ministry for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry.

The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Adeniyi Adebisi, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, led a high-level delegation on a courtesy visit to the MAN Secretariat in Jericho, Ibadan.

Adebisi explained that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration with MAN and chart a path for sustainable industrial growth and structured revenue reforms in Oyo State.

He emphasised the government’s commitment to building a resilient industrial ecosystem through strategic partnerships, infrastructural development, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The commissioner highlighted key infrastructural strides under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, including improved road networks and ongoing upgrades at the Ibadan Airport, aimed at positioning the state as a leading investment hub in Nigeria.

He stated that the visit focused on promoting nano and small-scale industries and ensuring that value-added activities such as the production of Gari Oyo and turmeric are developed to a standard that makes them viable and export-worthy.

Adebisi maintained that the ministry recognised that MAN is well-positioned to identify those producers engaged in these activities, adding that the government also expressed its readiness to sponsor such initiatives.

He noted that Oyo State is already collaborating with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and invites MAN to join this initiative.

Speaking on taxation, he hinted that the Oyo State government is ready to engage manufacturers to ensure inclusive and fair policies.

He also sought accurate data from manufacturers for direct communication with the right stakeholders, saying that a committee on Industrial Crisis Management has been established to address worker welfare in companies and industries.

Mr. Sebastine Shuiabu, representing the MAN Chairman for Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, Dr. Samuel Olawoyin, expressed appreciation for the state government’s industrial vision while noting the need for balanced policies that support growth.

MAN’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Nanzing Rimdan, assured the state of the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government to resolve infrastructure, financial, and regulatory challenges.