Ogun State Government has urged companies to embrace import substitution and increase local sourcing of raw materials to help address the forex shortage faced by industries.

Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Kikelomo Longe said this during her tour of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industry Groups, Apple and Pears Limited and CDK Integrated Industry Limited, all located at the State’s Sagamu Interchange Industrial Cluster.

Longe noted that the country was endowed with natural resources that could enhance the Gross Domestic Product and aid the growth of the economy, as well as create more jobs for Nigerians.

She called on the companies to continue to give back to their host communities through the implementation of relevant Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, to further build a harmonious relationship with the people in their communities.

The Commissioner said the tour was to build a closer relationship with the industries, restating the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s commitment to support and map out solutions to various challenges facing industries operating in the State.

“The present administration is deeply interested in the companies doing well because we know when the companies do well, it will positively affect the entire ecosystem. We want to proactively support our companies and help them do well and grow on a sustainable basis. Once the industries are stronger, our people will also do well”, she assured.

On their part, the Managing Director, Apple and Pears Limited, Mr. Hali Hasbin, Group Managing Director, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industry Groups, Dr. (Mrs.) Stella Okoli and Managing Director, CDK Integrated Industry Limited, Mr. Benard Longe commended the State government for being responsive to the concerns of companies and implementing policies for the improvement of Ease of Doing Business, as well as the construction of road infrastructure across the State.