Entrepreneur calls for policy review on textiles

Entrepreneur calls for policy review on textiles

Textile and garment business owners have urged the government to urgently review policies guiding the industry, citing persistent challenges such as smuggling, unreliable power supply, high production costs, and low investment despite the sector’s strong job-creation potential. This call was made by the Chief Executive Officer of CNDaniels Couture, Nnamdi Daniel, during the company’s end-of-year event in Abuja themed “Canvas of Culture: Ancestors are watching, GLAM Trad.”

Daniel noted that Nigeria’s textile production is far from meeting industry demand, while foreign smugglers—particularly from China—are profiting more than local garment makers. He explained that Nigerian designs are often copied, reproduced abroad, and resold in Nigeria at cheaper prices, undermining local businesses despite their superior quality.

As part of efforts to promote Made-in-Nigeria products and African cultural identity, Daniel announced an upcoming partnership with the British Council scheduled for early 2026. The initiative will begin in Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt before expanding nationwide, with the current fashion show serving as a preview of what the collaboration will showcase.

He emphasized the importance of using fashion to preserve and promote African culture, warning that Western influence is causing many Nigerians to lose touch with their traditional fabrics and fashion heritage. According to him, the “Glam Trad” concept aims to present clothing that reflects authentic African identity. Daniel also acknowledged that although many textile factories are inactive, locally made fabrics such as Adire and Akwete remain valuable, culturally rich, and in high demand.

  The Nation, 28 Dec 2025