By Mukhtar Sagir Dambatta
Nigeria’s textile production has increased by more than 45 per cent, reducing dependence on imported clothing and creating fresh opportunities for manufacturers across the country.
Experts told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday the growth reflected increased local investment, stronger patronage of Nigerian products and rising entrepreneurial interest among young people.
They urged the Federal Government to sustain the momentum through modern production facilities, affordable financing, stable electricity and vocational training to enhance global competitiveness.
Economic and development expert, Umar Salis, described the production increase as evidence of the resilience and creativity of Nigerian entrepreneurs despite prevailing economic challenges.
According to Salis, Nigeria is steadily reversing years of dependence on imported garments through increased domestic production of jerseys, trousers, jackets, suits and T-shirts.
“The progress recorded in the textile industry creates jobs, conserves foreign exchange and strengthens Nigeria’s manufacturing base.
“Government should provide industrial clusters, affordable credit, uninterrupted electricity and advanced production equipment, especially for young entrepreneurs.
“With the right support, Nigeria can become a leading textile and garment production hub in Africa,” Salis said.
Garment manufacturer, Musa Ibrahim, said growing demand for locally produced clothing had encouraged many small and medium-sized enterprises to expand production nationwide.
He said stronger consumer confidence in Nigerian-made products had stimulated investment, increased employment and strengthened activities throughout the textile value chain.
“We are producing quality jerseys, trousers, jackets, uniforms and corporate wear that compete favourably with imported products.
“Our major challenge remains access to modern machines, stable electricity and affordable financing,” Ibrahim said.
Fashion entrepreneur, Aisha Muhammad, described the development as a positive opportunity for women and young people seeking sustainable livelihoods through garment production.
She said many women had established tailoring and garment businesses, creating income, expanding entrepreneurship and reducing unemployment in their communities.
“The government should establish more vocational training centres, provide grants and subsidise modern sewing and textile equipment for young people.
“Empowering youth and women with the right facilities will increase production, reduce poverty and strengthen the nation’s economy,” Muhammed said.
The experts agreed sustained investment in domestic textile production would accelerate industrialisation, expand exports, strengthen manufacturing and further reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported clothing.
@NAN
