The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, has cautioned that the Senate’s call for a total ban on textile imports may not achieve its intended objectives without extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders.
The Senate had urged the Federal Government to prohibit the importation of foreign textile materials as part of efforts to revive Nigeria’s struggling textile industry and boost local cotton production.
Lawmakers argued that revitalising the sector would create jobs, stimulate economic growth, reduce youth unemployment, and help address insecurity across the country. They also maintained that rebuilding the textile industry would strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base, reduce dependence on imported fabrics, increase local production, and support economic diversification.
Reacting to the proposal, Ajayi-Kadir said a blanket import ban would only be effective if accompanied by deliberate policies and strong government support for local manufacturers.
According to him, the Federal Government must go beyond legislation by implementing measures that encourage the consumption of locally made products. He suggested that public institutions and civil servants at all levels should be required to prioritise Nigerian-made textiles and other locally produced goods.
Ajayi-Kadir further stated that the local textile industry has the capacity to meet domestic demand, provided manufacturers receive adequate support. He called for easier access to financing, stronger backward integration in cotton production, and policies that give preference to local materials over imported alternatives.
He stressed that a comprehensive approach involving government, industry players, and other stakeholders is essential to achieving sustainable growth in the textile sector and restoring its contribution to Nigeria’s economy.
