The Nigerian government is taking steps to bring back the once-thriving cotton and textile industry. This move aims to generate over 1.4 million jobs every year in the sector.
During a key meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on August 6, 2024, several high-ranking officials gathered to discuss this initiative. Present were Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Science and Technology Innovation; Hope Uzodinma, the Governor of Imo State; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State; and Vice President Kashim Shettima. The meeting was part of an event organized by the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC).
Vice President Shettima chaired the meeting, emphasizing the government’s commitment to revitalizing the cotton/textile industry. The Vice President’s Media Aide, Stanley Nkwocha, conveyed this message in a statement, revealing that the government is working closely with ICAC to achieve this goal. Eric Trachtenberg, ICAC’s Executive Director, led the committee’s delegation.
The discussions focused on enhancing every part of the cotton value chain. This includes farming, weaving, ginning, and linking cotton to other industries, all in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s industrialization agenda. Shettima stressed the need for concrete actions rather than mere discussions, urging stakeholders to develop a clear plan for reviving the sector.
Vice President Shettima assured that the administration is determined to leverage opportunities in the cotton value chain, aiming to restore Nigeria’s membership in ICAC. He expressed gratitude to the ICAC delegation for their visit and their dedication to developing the sector in Africa. He highlighted that the diverse expertise within ICAC provides a deep understanding of the complexities and potential in the cotton industry.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism about the revival of the cotton and textile industry. He noted that Lagos, with its factories and markets, is strategically positioned to benefit from and support this initiative. He pledged that the state is ready to purchase cotton produced in other regions, fostering local production and job creation.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma echoed these sentiments, describing the meeting as a crucial step toward Nigeria’s industrial revival. He highlighted that Imo State and the broader Southeastern region are eager to participate in this renewed effort. The governor emphasized the importance of this initiative for creating jobs and advancing the country’s industrialization goals.
