Nigeria loses N200bn annually printing books abroad-Association

The Gutenberg Prints Association of Nigeria has revealed that the country incurs an annual loss exceeding N200 billion due to the outsourcing of book printing.

During a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the Association’s president, Mr. Adekunle Adebambo, emphasized Nigeria’s capability to fulfill its printing needs domestically, which could significantly contribute to the nation’s industrial growth.

Adebambo urged the federal government and pertinent agencies to enhance local production capacities and establish policies that would cultivate a robust printing sector in the country.

“Every year, Nigeria spends at least N200 billion on printing books abroad,” he stated. “Many educational institutions mandate that students from nursery to secondary levels purchase books that are predominantly imported.”

He suggested that by partnering with local printing sources, schools could help reduce unemployment rates.

The president appealed to key stakeholders to address this critical issue, stressing that true industrialization cannot occur if opportunities remain untapped.

Adebambo also called upon the Ministry of Education to collaborate with Nigerian universities to create undergraduate and postgraduate programs in printing technology and management. These initiatives would equip professionals with advanced education, encourage innovation, and ensure a workforce prepared for the future.

He highlighted the necessity for professionalism within the industry to mitigate leadership challenges. “All prospective leaders of the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPN) should possess appropriate educational qualifications to align the organization with the standards of a chartered institute,” he asserted.

This dedication to professionalism is expected to foster a merit-based environment, promoting accountability and progress within the sector.

Adebambo identified several challenges the association faces, including limited educational pathways for printing professionals and the effects of inadequate leadership.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to cultivating a regulated, professional, and sustainable printing industry in Nigeria. “With the backing of the government, stakeholders, and the Nigerian populace, GUPPAN believes we can create an industry that meets our national needs while enhancing our global reputation.”

He concluded by urging for unified efforts to rectify past errors, uphold the standards established by Act 24 of 2007, and restore integrity to Nigeria’s printing industry. “We encourage the media to help raise awareness about these issues, as together we can build a future where the Nigerian printing sector embodies professionalism, innovation, and national pride,” he added.

The News Agency of Nigeria noted that the press conference was themed “Industrialization: The Role of Printing Business and Enhanced Printing Profession, Challenges and Solutions.”