Manufacturers decry N20bn yearly losses to poor infrastructure

Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has decried the huge decay in infrastructural facilities in the industrial zones of Amuwo Odofin, and Kirikiri areas of Lagos, noting that manufacturers lose over N20 billion yearly as a result of the precarious situation.

The Chairman, MAN, Apapa Branch, Frank Onyebu, said the infrastructure challenge has also seen more than 10 companies close down operations, with more contemplating shutting down.

Onyebu at a news conference noted that the roads within the industrial estate got dilapidated over the years due to continuous neglect by the government, and further compounded by the establishment of a number or new container terminals within the industrial estates.

He said the resultant toll on the roads within the estates is unimaginable, as factories in the zone have continued to record stock of unsold inventories.

In his words: “This situation is now threatening the continued existence of companies within the industrial areas. This is more so because the drivers of these invading articulated vehicles, who take instructions from no one, most often than not, take over every inch of the roads thereby making access to members’ factories a daily torment.”

According to him, members and visitors often have to park their vehicles along the way and trek down to factory premises, while customers who are unwilling or unable to access members’ factories, have had to divert to factories with better access.

He however solicited the help of the State and local governments, and other relevant agencies to come to the aid of members within the industrial estates to address the ugly situation.

“We call on the government to, in the short term; deploy resources to manage the traffic within the industrial zones, as well as to provide palliative measures to make the roads motorable. We would also appreciate a complete rehabilitation and construction of these roads in the longer term,” he said.

He noted that the situation also has over-reaching security and safety implications, as members are exposed to dangers of being robbed by miscreants, who usually show their presence in chaotic situations.

Of greater concern, the Chairman said is, the inherent risk of containers falling off vehicles and landing on other road users.

“Moreover, Fire Service and other emergency agencies would not be able to access factories located within the industrial zones if there is an emergency,” he said.