Since its establishment in 1971, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has remained a dominant voice in the country’s industrial landscape.
For over five decades, the association has played a crucial role in shaping policy, advocating for local manufacturing, and driving industrial growth.
Yet, a glaring omission remains, no woman has ever held the position of MAN President.
This long-standing absence of female leadership at the helm of MAN has sparked renewed conversations about gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing sectors.
The question for many observers is no longer about capability, but about access and equity.
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This long-standing absence of female leadership at the helm of MAN has sparked renewed conversations about gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing sectors. The question for many observers is no longer about capability, but about access and equity.
A History of Male-Dominated Leadership
Over the years, MAN has been led by prominent figures such as Bashir Borodo, Kola Jamodu, Frank Jacobs, and, more recently, Mansur Ahmed.
The leadership structure has historically remained male-dominated, with women largely confined to advisory roles, committee memberships, or honorary positions.
This is in stark contrast to sister organizations like the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), which has seen women rise to its highest leadership positions. Late Iyalode Alaba Lawson made history as NACCIMA’s first female president, paving the way for greater inclusion in business policy advocacy circles.
Not a Lack of Talent
Industry watchers and gender advocates argue that the absence of a female president at MAN does not reflect a shortage of capable women in manufacturing.
On the contrary, several distinguished women have built thriving industrial empires across Nigeria.
Names such as Dr. Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Nike Akande, a former Minister of Industry and longtime MAN council member, and Ifeoma Idigbe, stand out in the sector.
Despite their proven track records, these women “and many like them” have never been positioned to vie for the association’s top job.
Analysts suggest that the reason for this exclusion lies in entrenched systems within MAN’s operational and electoral structures.
