Daud Olatunji
In a significant move aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s local textile industry, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to provide subsidies to support the production of Adire, a traditional fabric with a rich cultural heritage.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to eradicate the influx of foreign textiles into the Nigerian market while stimulating economic growth and job opportunities, particularly for market women.
The Honorable Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, disclosed this strategic plan during her visit to the Adire Mall at Itoku and Asero in Abeokuta.
She emphasized the government’s strong commitment to ensuring that Adire becomes renowned on a global scale, and expressed the need to restrict the importation of foreign Adire products.
Dr. Betta Edu outlined the various programs that the government is poised to launch, capitalizing on the potential of Adire to uplift millions of vulnerable Nigerians out of poverty.
“The primary objective is to bolster local production to meet the growing demand. By enhancing and subsidizing local products, the government aims to reduce the entry of foreign imitations into the market,” she stated.
She emphasized the importance of distinguishing locally made Adire from imported counterfeits, such as those from China, stressing the significance of fostering a domestic industry to create jobs, strengthen the micro and macro economics, and shift Nigeria from being a predominantly importing nation to a manufacturing hub.
The Minister also highlighted the impact on foreign exchange rates and various economic indicators, expressing the government’s readiness to provide subsidies to Adire makers to encourage the production of local Adire, which can be used and exported worldwide.
Dr. Betta Edu commended the collaboration between the government and the Ogun State authorities, who have pledged to establish hubs in Abuja for the sale of original Adire.
This initiative aims to promote the cultural identity of Abeokuta and Ogun State globally, further supporting the export of genuine Adire products.
The government’s approach is centered on supporting local manufacturers, subsidizing their efforts, and expanding production to meet the surging demand, thereby eliminating the presence of imported alternatives.
During her visit to Ogun State, the Minister identified five areas in which the government can provide immediate support to alleviate poverty and improve the livelihoods of people.
Among these initiatives, Adire production stands out as a prominent choice, given its historical significance and strong presence in the local market.
Dr. Betta Edu emphasized the need to promote both traditional and modern Adire production, underlining its global recognition and appeal.
The government plans to initiate training programs and create new clusters for Adire in two other senatorial districts where it currently has limited presence.
Following this training, a fashion show dedicated to Adire will be organized to introduce these locally produced fabrics to new customers and promote their sales and exports.
Adire is a highly valued fabric known for its distinctive patterns and designs. This endeavor is aligned with the President’s goal of lifting 50 million Nigerians out of poverty within the next 42 months, with Adire production as one of the avenues to achieve this ambitious target.
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