Follow Us on Google
•Calls for strategic approach for growth of local manufacturing
Managing Director, Coleman Technical Industries Limited, George Onafowokan, has emphasised the importance of building human capacity and empowering individuals within an organisation to achieve maximum success.
Onafowokan, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of the company, called for deliberate and strategic approach to encourage the growth of local factories and the manufacturing of goods instead of mere assembly.
Onafowokan made the remarks recently at a press conference, while giving a brief history of how the company achieved remarkable success in the cable industry in West Africa and emerged as a global competitor.
He said he believes in integrating capable team members and giving them responsibilities to effectively perform their jobs.
By fostering a sense of belonging and valuing their contributions, he said he has created an environment where everyone has a voice and decision-making is not centralised solely to the Managing Director or CEO.
“Recognising the demand for locally made cables, the company diversified its product range and became the first in Nigeria and West Africa to produce high-voltage cables. Today, Coleman’s products are unmatched in quality and are not produced by any other company in Nigeria, West Africa and many parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
Disclosing how he overcomes setbacks, the MD said he takes proactive measures to ensure survival and growth of the company. “The company underwent a restructuring process and minimised losses. By reducing its size and scrutinising positions, Coleman was able to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, the company managed to build two new factories without relying on foreign expertise, showcasing its resilience and commitment in-country capacity enhancement.” Onafowokan emphasised the need to replicate the success achieved in the petroleum industry in the manufacturing sector, calling for a deliberate and strategic approach to encourage the growth of local factories and the manufacturing of goods instead of mere assembly.
“By fostering a supportive environment and building local capacity, Nigeria can establish itself as a manufacturing hub, creating more opportunities for businesses and economic growth.”
Looking ahead, he said Coleman’s future appears promising, as the company has several ongoing projects, including the expansion and completion of the Shagamu plant, the establishment of copper and aluminum factories and a power project to increase capacity.
“Coleman also has plans to supply markets in West and Central Africa, with further expansion into East Africa. The company’s robust export plan aims to boost business figures significantly, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“Coleman’s partnership with the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has been instrumental in its success. The company has been working closely with the board since 2017, leveraging the opportunities provided by the local content law. Coleman has managed to break into the oil and gas industry, supplying cables to major companies such as NLNG, Shell, and Mobil. The ability of the company to provide cables that no other Nigerian company can produce has solidified its reputation as a trusted and innovative supplier in the industry.
He hilighted the importance of building human capacity and empowering individuals within an organization, as he believes in integrating capable team members and giving them responsibilities to effectively perform their jobs.
“By fostering a sense of belonging and valuing their contributions, he creates an environment where everyone has a voice and decision-making is not centralized solely to the Managing Director or CEO.”
