Nigeria is taking strategic steps to revive its textile industry in a bid to boost job creation, Vice President Kashim Shettima recently informed a visiting delegation from the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC). During the meeting, Shettima highlighted the government’s commitment to capitalizing on opportunities within the cotton value chain and expressed determination to restore the country’s membership in ICAC.
The ICAC delegation, led by Executive Director Eric Trachtenberg, acknowledged Nigeria’s potential in the textile sector. Trachtenberg emphasized the advantages Nigeria holds, including low-cost labor, access to markets under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and economic partnership agreements with the European Union. He praised the country for its talented workforce and proactive government officials.
Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, who was also present at the meeting, pledged to combat smuggling and support efforts to rejuvenate the textile industry.
Additionally, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of Nigerians supporting the domestic cotton industry instead of relying on imports. The collaboration between government officials and ICAC signals a strong commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s textile sector and tapping into its full potential.
