In the face of Nigeria’s ongoing naira crisis and inflation, one silver lining has emerged: local solutions are no longer just an option, but a necessity. Nowhere is this more evident than in the baby food sector, where brands like Moppet Baby Food have not only endured but thrived in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.

Engr. Roberta Edu, the passionate and visionary CEO of Moppet Foods, recently shared her thoughts on the transformative power of local manufacturing in a heartfelt statement. Reflecting on the changes she’s witnessed over the years, Edu remarked, “I remember a time when the baby goods aisle was filled with foreign products. Today, it’s a different story. The shelves are now stocked with locally made products, and Moppet Foods has stood the test of time. Thank God for visionaries who dared to invest in this space when it wasn’t easy.”

Her words not only celebrate the success of Moppet Foods but also point to a larger trend in Nigeria’s retail and manufacturing sectors. As the demand for foreign goods dwindles due to economic constraints, local entrepreneurs are stepping up to fill the gaps. This trend isn’t limited to food; even in fashion, Nigerian brands like Zephans and Karen are becoming household names. It’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of Nigerian entrepreneurs who have refused to be discouraged by external challenges.

Edu’s call for local manufacturing is rooted in her belief that Nigeria’s economic future hinges on the ability to create homegrown solutions. “The way forward, especially for the next generation of Nigerian wealth, is manufacturing. This is where the opportunity lies, particularly in food production,” she stated, underscoring the potential for Nigerians to build businesses that not only meet domestic needs but also create jobs and stimulate the economy.

But Edu’s vision doesn’t stop at manufacturing. As a woman and an entrepreneur, she’s particularly focused on empowering Nigerian women to turn their culinary skills into full-fledged businesses. She wants to see women move beyond cooking for their families to becoming entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. “I do not just want Nigerian women to make food at home; I want them to turn their food making into an enterprise, a thriving business that can create jobs and uplift families,” she said, her passion clear.

In line with this mission, Edu has set an ambitious goal for 2025: to support 100 low-income Nigerian women who are eager to start their own manufacturing businesses. This initiative, which will be launched next year, will provide the necessary resources, mentorship, and training to help these women succeed. “Next year, I want to see these women rise, sweat, and work hard to build businesses that will leave a legacy. It’s time for women to take their place at the table of economic transformation,” Edu stated, her voice filled with determination.

The announcement, which will be made this Friday, is expected to be a game-changer for women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Edu’s commitment to making a difference is evident in her belief that empowering women will not only transform their lives but will also contribute to the broader goal of economic empowerment in the country.

“The future is bright, and it’s in the hands of these women. Are you ready to take the leap and be part of this change?” she asked, encouraging women across Nigeria to join the movement.

As the country grapples with economic challenges, Edu’s unwavering commitment to local manufacturing and women’s empowerment offers a hopeful path forward. With a vision that combines innovation, determination, and a deep sense of purpose, Moppet Foods is not just feeding babies – it’s nurturing the future of Nigerian entrepreneurship.

Stay tuned for Edu’s big announcement on Friday – it’s a step towards building a stronger, more resilient Nigeria, one woman at a time.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu