Nigeria Moves To Revive Textile Industry, Create Jobs
The initiative aims to boost cotton production by 2 million tonnes annually
In a bid to revive the moribund textile industry in the country, the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) meeting convened at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, by Vice President Kashim Shettima, to discuss the ambitious “African Cotton Sustainability Programme 2030.”
The initiative aims to boost cotton production by 2 million tonnes annually, enhancing economic and environmental outcomes for farmers.
In December 2021 Plans for a new ‘African cotton sustainability programme 2030’ that could increase cotton production by 2 million tonnes a year and deliver significant financial and environmental benefits to farmers – in a ‘genes to jeans’ approach – was announced at the annual International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) plenary meeting.
Speaking to State House Correspondents, Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma emphasised the programme’s potential to revitalize Nigeria’s cotton and textile industries, which have suffered from neglect.
He highlighted the need for innovative partnerships to create jobs and engage youth.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu speaking on concerns about local patronage of Nigerian textiles versus imported fabrics, advocated for a focus on the entire value chain to stimulate local production.
ICAC’s Executive Director, Eric Trachtenberg, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s unique advantages, including low labour costs and market access, urging collaboration to reimagine the cotton economy.
Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NIS), Adewale Adeniyi, acknowledged smuggling as a significant challenge, pledging to reform policies to protect the industry.
Director-General of the Nigerian Textile Manufacturers Association, Hamma Kwajaffa, celebrated the discussions, asserting that the revival of the textile sector could significantly reduce unemployment and improve national security.
