THE Federal Government has called on stakeholders in Nigeria’s printing industry to close ranks and work together to reposition the sector for sustainable growth, saying unity remains the key to unlocking its vast economic and employment potential.

 

The appeal came from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the Nigeria Print Industry Stakeholders’ Summit 2026 held yesterday in Abuja.

 

Addressing printers, packaging professionals and other industry stakeholders, the minister said the recent resolution of the leadership dispute within the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON) should serve as a fresh beginning for the industry rather than a mere end to an internal crisis.

 

He urged members of the institute to rally behind the current leadership and channel their collective efforts toward rebuilding the profession, improving standards and enhancing the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economy.

 

According to him, the printing industry possesses significant capacity to generate employment, stimulate industrial growth and support national development, but such opportunities can only be fully realised in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.

 

“History has given you an opportunity to reposition this industry. Please seize it, work together, and let everyone support the leadership so that collectively you can move the profession forward,” Idris said.

 

The minister disclosed that shortly after assuming office, one of the first matters brought to his attention was the lingering leadership crisis within CIPPON.

 

He said he believed from the outset that dialogue, reconciliation and mutual understanding would deliver better results than prolonged litigation, adding that the peaceful resolution of the dispute now presents an opportunity for the institute to focus on its core mandate.

 

Rather than expend energy on internal disagreements, he said industry players should direct their attention to strengthening professional standards, embracing innovation and creating an environment that would attract investment and government support.

 

Idris noted that governments are better able to partner with industries that present a united front, stressing that cohesion among stakeholders would improve the sector’s chances of securing favourable policies and institutional backing.

 

He assured the institute of the Federal Government’s readiness to collaborate with relevant agencies and institutions in promoting initiatives that would strengthen regulation, improve professionalism and create a more enabling environment for operators.

 

The minister also challenged the institute’s leadership to adopt an inclusive style of governance by carrying every member along, irrespective of previous disagreements.

 

He said lasting reconciliation would only be achieved when all stakeholders feel a sense of belonging and shared ownership of the institute’s future.

 

According to him, leadership should be measured not only by administrative success but also by the ability to unite people around a common purpose and leave behind stronger institutions.

 

Idris further urged practitioners to embrace technological advancement, warning that the rapid pace of digital transformation across the world demands continuous innovation and investment in modern printing technologies.

 

He said adapting to new technologies would enable Nigerian printing firms to improve efficiency, compete more effectively in regional and global markets and meet the evolving demands of customers.

 

The minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to supporting the institute’s programmes aimed at building a stronger, more innovative and globally competitive printing industry.

 

Earlier, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON), Koko T. Clement, said the institute had made significant progress since the inauguration of the current governing council in December 2025.

 

He said the council had prioritised engagement with key government institutions to strengthen professional standards, improve regulation of the industry and advocate policies that would promote growth across the printing and packaging value chain.

 

According to him, the institute remains committed to advancing the interests of practitioners while fostering peace, professionalism and collaboration among members.

 

“Everything we do is for the growth of this Institute, for the benefit of every printer, every packaging professional, and every Nigerian who depends on this industry. We call on all stakeholders to work together in peace and mutual understanding so that what unites us remains greater than whatever may divide us,” Clement said.

 

He described the summit as an important platform for industry players to reflect on the future of the profession, identify emerging opportunities and develop practical strategies for improving productivity and competitiveness.

 

The event attracted senior government officials, industry leaders and representatives of the printing and packaging sector from across the country.