The evolution of wires and cables stands as a silent yet pivotal force that is essential for connectivity and power distribution, especially in developing economies. In Nigeria, we have come from an era dominated by imported, expensive, and low-capacity electrical wiring to a revolutionary shift led by indigenous companies. An identifiable trailblazer doing this as the largest manufacturer in West Africa is Coleman Wires and Cables.
Before the existence of Coleman, there was a localized solution deficit making it extremely difficult for the various industries to access quality cables. This harsh reality stifled communication, education, and economic opportunities making Nigeria and countries in Africa rely solely on imported cables.
Coleman started with a simple vision to bridge the massive gap in solving our local needs for cables. The goal was to create a brand that could locally manufacture all wires and cables needed in a building. Coleman Wires and Cables, the leading indigenous Ogun state-based manufacturing firm, founded in 1975, is today the leading manufacturer with the widest range of products in West Africa.
Coleman Cables and Wires fosters the empowerment of communities, unlocking potential, and bridging the digital divide between Sub-saharan Africa, the entire African continent, and other continents. “Nigeria is the priority and by this year we will have solved 90% of Nigeria’s cable problems for every sector. We’ve set in place a deliberate strategy to localize solutions and we’ll continue to do so. From launching the first Fibre Optic Cable factory in West Africa to producing Nigeria’s first high fire-resistant cables. We’ve been able to show the possibilities of making long-term investments and what can come out of it. We are now focused on solving problems in other countries from a Nigerian perspective, and this changes the narrative for Nigeria not just being an importing country, but a country also providing value to the world”, the Managing Director, George Onafowokan, expressed in an interview.
Rooted in the heart of southwest Nigeria, Coleman Wires and Cables leads a broader impact on the African continent with its operations. By demonstrating the potential of indigenous companies to thrive and excel, the company serves as a beacon of inspiration for other businesses across West Africa. The ripple effect of their commitment to local manufacturing and economic empowerment has the potential to contribute to overall growth and development.
The company continues to expand in the provision of solutions with locally sourced materials for the powering of homes, industries, and cities, the company not only poses a competitive advantage underpinned, driving efficiency relative to its industry peers. Beyond the ongoing investment in capacity expansion and technologies that continue to drive meaningful upscaling and gain efficiency relative to peers, Coleman has also revolutionized the job market enhancing skill development and economic growth.
Coleman has been able to provide job opportunities for over 25,000 people across the continent, which aligns with their contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1 – No Poverty). The company’s commitment to local manufacturing also stimulates ancillary industries and services, offering benefits to various sectors of the economy. From raw material suppliers to logistics providers, the magnificent impact of Coleman Cables and Wires resonates across the entire value chain.
The impact of Coleman’s wires and cables is evident across a spectrum of industries, ranging from manufacturing to construction and oil and gas. Coleman’s prevalence underscores its critical role as our nation progresses and advances in various sectors.
