The President of the Senate, Sen. Bukola Saraki, has reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to amend the Public Procurement Act to encourage industries to patronise Nigerian made products.

Saraki gave the assurance when the Chief Executive Officer of Adic Designs Limited, Mr. Adiele Ekeke, provided him with 29 locally made fabrics.

He said the assembly would pass the amendment bill as soon as possible to ensure that various industries in the country patronised local products.

“We must all work together to help our local industries. A lot of people laugh about it but it is a serious matter. I think that we should be very committed.

“This might look like a joke but it is very symbolic and we truly believe that it is time for us to drive our economy, stimulate jobs by encouraging and supporting our indigenous manufacturers.

“I have said that the National Assembly will support locally produced items from garments, wears and cars.

“I am also happy that the Public Procurement Act has gone through first reading and we hope that next week we will take the second reading.”

Saraki urged the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment to step up its oversight activities to ensure judicious implementation of the budgetary allocation to the non-oil sector. (NAN)

•Photo shows Senate President Saraki.