Kano Chamber of Commerce Endorses Tinubu’s Import Ban Policy, Highlights Opportunities and Challenges
By Dr. Abbati Bako, PSC, BSIS
Treasurer, Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (KACCIMA)
Alumnus, University of Kent | Researcher & PhD Scholar, Skyland University , Kano
The recent policy decision by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to ban the importation of foreign goods that can be produced locally marks a bold and commendable step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s economy. On behalf of the Kano Chamber of Commerce (KACCIMA), I present an official assessment of this policy, outlining its potential benefits and challenges for Kano State, Northern Nigeria, and the nation at large.
Positive Implications of the Policy
1.Boost to Local Industries
The ban will significantly empower domestic manufacturers, particularly in Kano and Northern Nigeria, enabling them to expand and compete more effectively in the global market. However, for local industries to thrive, uninterrupted electricity supply—at least 30,000MW—must be prioritized to ensure competitiveness.
2.Job Creation
By encouraging local production, this policy will stimulate employment opportunities, reducing unemployment and poverty. If well-implemented, it could help curb stagflation and foster sustainable economic growth.
3.Conservation of Foreign Exchange
Reducing reliance on imported goods will help stabilize the Naira by conserving foreign reserves and improving Nigeria’s balance of trade with international partners.
4. Increased Government Revenue
The expansion of local industries will generate higher tax revenues, royalties, and other economic benefits, strengthening public finances for national development.
Potential Challenges and Risks
1. Initial Shortages and Inflationary Pressures
A sudden restriction on foreign imports may lead to temporary shortages, particularly for goods not yet produced in sufficient quantities locally. This could trigger inflation not only in Kano and Northern Nigeria but across the entire nation and possibly the West African subregion.
2. Higher Consumer Costs
Local producers may struggle to match the cost efficiency of foreign manufacturers, leading to increased prices for consumers—a critical concern for Nigeria’s population of over 230 million.
3. Dependence on Local Production Capacity
The policy’s success hinges on the ability of Nigerian industries to meet demand with goods of comparable quality and quantity to foreign alternatives.
4. Risk of Corruption
Strict import controls could create loopholes for corrupt practices in contract allocations and enforcement mechanisms, necessitating strong oversight.
Global Context: Is Protectionism the New Norm?
President Tinubu’s move aligns with a growing global debate on protectionism versus free trade. While the World Bank and IMF traditionally discourage such measures, even the United States under former President Donald Trump imposed tariffs to protect local industries. This raises a critical question: Is globalization in crisis, or are nations reevaluating economic strategies in a shifting world order?
Conclusion and Recommendations
The import ban policy holds immense potential to transform Nigeria’s economy, but its success depends on strategic implementation. To maximize benefits, the government must:
– Ensure stable and sufficient power supply (minimum 30,000MW) to support industrialization.
– Implement robust monitoring mechanisms to prevent corruption and market distortions.
– Support local manufacturers with incentives, infrastructure, and access to financing.
As Treasurer of KACCIMA, I commend this initiative and urge the Federal Government to address these challenges proactively. If executed effectively, this policy can position Nigeria—and by extension, West Africa—on a path toward sustainable economic growth and self-reliance.
Dr. Abbati Bako
*Treasurer, Kano Chamber of Commerce
*Researcher & Globalization Policy Analyst
