In a resolute move to bolster Nigeria’s textile industry, the Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to empowering the cotton, textile, and garment sectors.
The aim is to bolster employment opportunities and diminish dependency on imports.
During a recent town hall meeting in Abuja, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, outlined ongoing efforts to attract investors and execute action plans aimed at breathing new life into the industry.
She projected the creation of 200,000 jobs within the next two years, emphasising the pivotal role of the fashion industry in driving demand for domestically manufactured textiles and garments.
Key initiatives include upgrading existing facilities, introducing cutting-edge technologies, and enhancing production quality to compete on a global scale.
Sheriff Balogun, President of the Federation of Agricultural Commodities of Nigeria (FACAN), underscored the imperative of a collaborative approach and prompt action to tackle sectoral challenges.
He highlighted Nigeria’s current foreign exchange crisis, low purchasing power, and unemployment as pressing issues that could be transformed into opportunities through value addition to raw materials.
Balogun emphasised the potential for global garment exports and called for support from entities such as Dangote in accessing affordable diesel, which is crucial for the industry’s operations.