The Federal Government of Nigeria is launching a new initiative to revitalize its Cotton, Textile and Garment (CTG) industry. The aim is to reposition the sector as a center for employment, industrial growth and export market competitiveness.
The programme, also known as the National Cotton, Textile and Garment Industrial Transformation Program (NCTG-ITP), is a practical implementation of Nigeria’s industrial policy. The country has the production capacity, skilled labor and market potential to rebuild the textile industry. This reduces dependence on imports and stimulates inclusive economic growth.
The first phase of the program included a six-month pilot project, during which ten thousand T-shirts were produced in Nigeria using local cotton. The results of this project demonstrate the country’s ability to produce high quality clothing at a competitive cost compared to imports.
“Our biggest challenge is not just financing or infrastructure, but coordination across the value chain,” said John Owan Enoh, Minister of Industry at the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, during a recent working session on the program. He noted that the government is currently developing a stronger policy framework to support farmers, manufacturers and investors. This is done through strategic partnerships with institutions, including the Bank of Industry and the Bank of Agriculture.
According to Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nigeria’s CTG sector can strengthen the country’s position within the African Continental Free Trade Area. The sector has the potential to create more than 1.5 million jobs, especially for women. The new framework is designed to improve policy consistency, strengthen value chains and attract investments. In addition, it creates more opportunities for SMEs through technology adoption, skills development and market access.
Development partners and financial institutions are also supporting the revival of the sector. Ayo Shotirin, Director of the Bank of Agriculture, affirmed the bank’s support for farmers and companies in the CTG value chain. Philbert Johnson of UNIDO stated that Nigeria’s industrial transformation is within reach through stronger cooperation, investment and stable policy support.
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