Obasanjo Appeals to FG to Protect Adire Production and Local Textiles
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged the Federal Government (FG) to ban the importation of Chinese adire into the country to safeguard the local adire market from potential harm. Obasanjo emphasized the need to protect local production of adire and other items that can be made in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ‘Canada Trade Mission ’24’ pre-conference session in Abeokuta, Obasanjo lamented the unavailability of materials for adire production that were previously sourced from places like Kano, Kaduna, and Ado-Ekiti. He called for the revival of the nation’s textile industry to ensure a steady supply of raw materials for adire production.
Additionally, Obasanjo advocated for the establishment of formal training institutions where individuals can learn the art of producing adire and receive certification upon completion.
He stated, “The government needs to do two things for us. Firstly, revive the textile industry, and secondly, establish formal training institutions for adire production to protect our local production and prevent Chinese imports from undermining it.”
Obasanjo also urged the government to consider banning the importation of not only Chinese adire but also other products that can be produced locally in Nigeria.
