Publishers, others seek enabling environment, support for N1.4tr sector

Publishers and other stakeholders in the printing industry have urged the federal government to provide an enabling business environment that will improve local capacity development in the sector.

They also pushed for the availability of grants and facilities for the $3 billion (N1.4trillion at N460/$) yearly revenue book industry to further boost the struggling economy.

According to them, diversification of the economy is critical to creating wealth and employment, noting that the printing and publishing industry is well up to the task if given the necessary support.

They gave the submission at the maiden edition of the International Paper, Publishing and Printing Expo, organised by DCS Integrated Media Limited in conjunction with Nigeria International Print Expo (NIPEX), the International Print on Textile Expo (IPONTEX), and Marketing and Promotional Products Expo (MAPPEX) in Lagos.

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The Chief Executive Officer of Accessible Publishers Limited, Gbadega Adedapo, said the printing and publishing industries have a significant impact on the economy of the country as it contributes immensely to the employment of labour.

Adedapo, who is also the Chairman, Reproduction Rights Society of Nigeria (REPRONIG), added that the industry has many challenges crippling it, which include, brain drain, high cost of production, lack of technical, financial and human capital, piracy issues, high foreign exchange, among others.

Adedapo said for the industry to thrive in the country, there must be implementation of a functional National Book Policy and new Copyright Act, stronger collaboration among players, investment in modern printing technology and equipment, quality control measures and a culture of inclusivity.

The Chairman, Trade Promotion Board  and Consular General of China, Guo Pengwen, said printing and publishing in Nigeria are facing challenges from digital technology to paper production and publishing.

He said China is upgrading its industry by digitalisation and new technology equipment.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, DCS Integrated Media Limited, Mr. Tunde Obokhai, said the expo was aimed at creating a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, collaboration and up-skilling in print business that will benefit everyone involved.