Nigeria recently unveiled plans for a complete overhaul of struggling textile firms across the country as part of efforts to revive the textile and garment industry and generate jobs.
A top government official said certain specific locations, including Kaduna, have been identified as key assets that can be revitalised to restore the sector to its former glory, reduce imports and promote exports.
Certain specific locations, including Kaduna, have been identified as key assets that can be revitalised to restore the sector to its former glory, create mass employment, reduce imports and promote exports, Bassey was cited as saying by domestic media outlets.
Revitalisation efforts will involve a complete overhaul of physical infrastructure at sites like Kakuri, which she said are currently dilapidated but remain strategically important to the sector, she said.
The ministry is developing a new policy centred around fiscal, financial, skill and regulatory measures, she informed. The 2015 policy is currently under revision and will be launched soon, along with a road map for its implementation.
Bassey said the ministry is working with research institutions, development partners and federal and state agencies to address challenges in the cotton value chain and ensure quality and quantity to sustain the industry.
The ministry is also discussing with the Bank of Industry and the Bank of Agriculture to provide affordable financing and grants, especially for small and medium enterprises.
A task force is working to combat smuggling and counterfeit textile products, she added.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
