Nigeria’s once-booming textile industry is now a shadow of its former self, as cheap imports from China, high production costs, and weak government policies have crippled local manufacturing. In the 1990s, Nigeria’s textile sector had over 150 thriving mills, employing millions and contributing significantly to the economy. Today, fewer than four factories are still in operation, struggling to survive in an increasingly hostile market.
Industry experts blame the decline on multiple factors. Chinese manufacturers, supported by their government’s extensive subsidies and a well-integrated supply chain, have flooded the Nigerian market with affordable fabrics. Many of these imports are counterfeit versions of Nigerian textile designs, making it even harder for local producers to compete. Additionally, the depreciation of the naira has increased the cost of raw materials, as local manufacturers depend on imports for dyes, chemicals, and machinery.
One of the biggest challenges facing the industry is Nigeria’s erratic power supply. Many textile factories spend a significant portion of their budget on diesel to power generators, driving up production costs. Meanwhile, access to affordable credit remains limited, with many businesses unable to secure loans needed for expansion or modernization.
The federal government recently announced a $3.5 billion loan deal aimed at reviving the sector, but industry players remain skeptical. Many recall previous financial interventions that failed to yield results due to corruption, mismanagement, and lack of transparency. They argue that unless the government prioritizes infrastructure, reduces dependence on imports, and enforces trade policies to protect local industries, the textile sector may never recover.
Market traders in cities like Lagos, Kano, and Aba confirm that Nigerian-made textiles have become rare, with most customers opting for cheaper foreign alternatives. Some manufacturers have relocated their businesses to neighboring countries with better industrial policies, further weakening Nigeria’s manufacturing base.
Despite the bleak situation, some stakeholders believe there is hope if urgent steps are taken. They recommend stricter policies against counterfeit imports, financial support for local producers, and improved infrastructure to reduce production costs. Without these interventions, Nigeria risks losing what is left of its textile heritage, along with thousands of jobs that once sustained families across the country.
