The Federal Government has been called upon to prioritise investment in Nigeria’s indigenous Adire industry as part of its efforts to diversify the nation’s economy, expand non-oil exports and create sustainable employment opportunities.
Stakeholders believe that with the right policies, funding and innovation, the traditional fabric could evolve into a one billion dollar global industry while showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the international stage.
The call was made during the Adire Renaissance Stakeholders’ Engagement held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The event, organised by the Innovation Centre for Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development (ICLED) in collaboration with Wessy College of Arts and Technology, brought together government officials, entrepreneurs, researchers, artisans and investors to develop strategies for positioning Adire as a globally competitive textile brand.
Delivering the keynote address, Managing Consultant of Superbrains Consulting Limited, Dr. Tunde Bajela, said Nigeria’s textile industry presents enormous untapped opportunities, noting that the country’s textile market is projected to grow significantly over the next decade.
He explained that developing the Adire value chain could open doors to the multi trillion dollar global fashion industry, generate foreign exchange earnings and reduce the nation’s dependence on crude oil.
Bajela also proposed the establishment of a dedicated Adire Development Fund to provide affordable financing for artisans and manufacturers while warning against the growing influx of foreign made imitation Adire fabrics.
Also speaking, Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to preserving the originality of Adire through policies that encourage local production and patronage. She disclosed that discussions are ongoing on introducing Adire inspired school uniforms and strengthening measures to curb the importation of counterfeit Adire fabrics.
Founder of ICLED, Prof. Olajumoke Familoni, equally stressed the need to protect the authenticity of Adire while empowering young people, especially girls, through science, technology, entrepreneurship and textile production.
She revealed plans to establish an Adire Hub featuring a museum, exhibition galleries and historical archives to preserve the rich heritage of the fabric and drive innovation for future generations.
