By Esther Onyegbula

The Managing Director of Oke Light Technical Company, Mr. Raphael O. Onomovo, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise the support and patronage of indigenous companies as a strategic pathway to economic growth and youth empowerment.

Speaking in Lagos, Onomovo stressed that local firms possess the capacity to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy if given the necessary government backing, particularly in the face of prevailing economic challenges.

According to him, indigenous companies are grappling with rising operational costs, especially the high cost of importing machinery and raw materials, which are often priced in foreign currency.

“The government should assist indigenous companies in Nigeria because it is not easy for us. It is very expensive to import machines from abroad,” he said.

Highlighting the untapped potential within the local manufacturing sector, Onomovo noted that Nigerian firms are capable of producing equipment such as trucks that are currently imported.

Citing a recent example, he said, “Alhaji Aliko Dangote reportedly imported about 400 trucks from China. If such opportunities are given to indigenous firms, we can deliver quality jobs and, at the same time, empower the youths we are training.”
He explained that his company has consistently contributed to youth development by training and empowering young Nigerians annually, adding that increased government support would further expand such initiatives.

Onomovo, who said he has over 25 years of experience in the industry, expressed confidence in his company’s ability to deliver professional and high-quality services, but lamented that existing government policies are not favourable to private business owners.

“The cost of raw materials still affects our business. We buy in dollars, and the exchange rate continues to pose a serious challenge. Despite these difficulties, we thank God we are still in business,” he said.

The Oke Light Technical Company boss also disclosed that the firm has built a reputation beyond Nigeria, with international clients engaging its services in welding, fabrication and installation.

“We have clients from other countries who engage us for installation jobs. Although we encounter challenges sometimes, our long-term experience helps us to overcome them,” he added.

He, however, appealed to foreign partners to support indigenous firms with modern equipment, noting that access to the right machinery is critical to boosting production capacity and competitiveness.

Onomovo maintained that with the right policies, patronage, and investment in local industries, indigenous companies could play a pivotal role in driving industrialisation and reducing unemployment in Nigeria.