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Author: Esther .C. Iyire
In the 60’s, the Nigerian textile business was one of the most vibrant industries in Africa, contributing to agriculture. It was the biggest employer of labour with a record of over 140 companies in Kaduna, Kano, Aba etc, responsible for the employment of millions of people and this contributed to about 15% of the manufacturing sector earnings to the GDP of the economy and it also accounted for over 60% of the textile industry capacity in the whole of West Africa.
Situations changed as oil was discovered. The government became more reliant on oil and neglected agriculture which affected the textile industries. Cotton production declined by 50%, importation of raw materials were affected as well.
Even though this sector had boosted the nation’s economy, it suddenly became a shadow of itself.
However, it has been proven overtime that the textile industry is a major driver/ positive influencer of economic growth and employment globally.
For instance, Hungary textile industry exports increased by 3.2% in 2014 from 1’57billion dollars in 2013 to 1.62billion dollars including a strong labour popular of over 43,000.
When we talk about this growth, never forget China. china has over 100,000 manufacturers employing millions of people. Their textile industry is said to contribute 47% to the country’s GDP with its value of exports believed to be about 153.219billion dollars.
As it stands, China is the world’s largest manufacturer, exporter and consumer of garments. Her textile industry remains competitive due to continued investment in the domestic industry.
Having observed the importance of high productivity of the textile industry in boosting economic growth, with the success of Nigerian designers in local and international shows, it has become apparent that we as Nigerians must give priority to the textile industry to improve our fortunes and the economy.
⁃ Provision of infrastructure; electricity, factory machines, good transport systems.
⁃ Enabling environment for textile manufacturers and fashion designers to thrive.
⁃ Continuous and monitored investment in the industry.
⁃ Laws, bills and policies to protect the industry should be signed
⁃ As fashion designers, we should be able to identify with our products; create styles, brand and showcase them, making reference to its African production .
⁃ More institutions should be set up to educate interested workers and unemployed citizens on textile production and fashion designing.
⁃ Use an attraction to make the rest of the world interested in our products just as we are in theirs. {e.g.. the use of physically challenged people as models, celebrities can use them in their videos, broadcasters etc)
This is where African and International fashion can meet causing it globalization.
The different fashion capitals that exist have major influence on international fashion trends, designs, production, retailing, fashion weeks, awards and trade fairs because they possess successful textile industries and markets.
It is important that Fashion designers should embrace these solutions and apply to our works for the improvement of ourselves and the nation.
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