By Niyi Jacobs
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is intensifying efforts to standardize the leather and textile industry, positioning Nigeria to tap into the lucrative $1 trillion global market.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ sensitization and capacity-building workshop in Aba, Abia State, Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, SON’s Director-General, emphasized the importance of adhering to global standards. Represented by Chukwuma Aharanwa, Director of South-East Regional Operations, Okeke highlighted SON’s initiatives to engage manufacturers, suppliers, and artisans to ensure Nigerian products meet international benchmarks.
“Standards are a global common language. Our products must meet these standards to boost exports and reduce rejections in international markets,” Okeke said. He added that the agency’s interventions have improved the quality of local leather products, enabling Nigerian manufacturers to produce competitive goods like shoes, belts, and handbags.
The workshop, attended by over 730 stakeholders, also addressed challenges such as the poor quality of raw materials and the use of banned chemicals in production. Experts educated participants on quality assurance, anti-trade barriers, and standardization processes.
Stakeholders, including Hon. Nwaobilo Obinna, President of the Leather Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (LEPMAAS), and Prince Obasi Uba, Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (Abia/Owerri Chapter), expressed optimism about the sector’s potential. They called for government support, regular engagement with SON, and policies to boost exports and reduce the influx of foreign goods.
With SON’s continued commitment, the leather and textile sector is poised to create thousands of jobs, generate revenue, and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
