SON Revamps Nigeria’s Leather and Textile Sector, Targets $1 Trillion Global Market.
In a strategic push to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is intensifying efforts to elevate the country’s leather and textile sector to meet international standards, unlocking access to the $1 trillion global market.
At a stakeholders’ sensitization and capacity-building workshop in Aba, Abia State, SON underscored its commitment to standardization and quality assurance. The workshop was aimed at enlightening manufacturers and artisans on the benefits of adhering to global standards to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian products.
Speaking at the event, SON’s Director-General, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, represented by Chukwuma Aharanwa, Director of South-East Regional Operations, emphasized the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in driving economic growth. He highlighted SON’s policy of involving MSMEs in standards development through technical committees.
Boosting Quality and Competitiveness
Dr. Okeke noted that SON’s interventions have significantly improved the quality of locally produced leather goods such as shoes, belts, and handbags, enabling them to compete with international brands. He added that the sector’s repositioning is expected to create thousands of jobs, generate substantial government revenue, and place Nigeria as a major player in the global leather industry.
“Nigeria has the potential to dominate the global leather market,” Okeke said. “With the right standards and quality assurance, our manufacturers can produce high-quality products that rival the best in the world.”
Stakeholder Support and Engagement
The event also featured discussions on strategies to reduce the rejection of Nigerian exports due to substandard products. Mrs. Stella Chamberlain, Head of Marketing at SON, noted that for Aba, known as a hub of trade and industry, the production of competitive and quality products is essential for long-term success.
Hon. Nwaobilo Obinna, President of the Leather Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (LEPMAAS), expressed optimism about increasing exports and called for stronger government support for the sector. He proposed regular stakeholder meetings with SON to ensure continued progress.
Similarly, Prince Obasi Uba, Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Abia/Owerri Chapter, highlighted the sector’s potential to conserve foreign exchange, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen the naira. He urged the government to address local industry concerns to further boost productivity.
Challenges and Way Forward
While participants commended SON’s efforts, some raised concerns about the poor quality of raw materials in the market. Experts at the workshop also educated attendees on avoiding banned chemicals and adhering to best practices in production.
Mrs. Pebisn Arumemi, Head of MSMEs at SON, reiterated the importance of standards in boosting trade and fostering economic growth. She assured participants of SON’s continued support to help manufacturers access international markets.
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A Vision for Economic Transformation
The repositioning of the leather and textile sector is a testament to SON’s dedication to promoting standardization as a tool for economic transformation. By creating a framework that enables Nigerian products to meet global standards, SON aims to open new markets for the country’s goods, reduce trade barriers, and contribute significantly to national development.
With sustained advocacy, stakeholder collaboration, and government support, the leather and textile sector could become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s export-driven economy, creating jobs and generating substantial revenue in the years to come.
