LAGOS– The Managing Director of Zara Eniola Limited, Zara Eniola Oladega has fumed at the proliferation of Nigerian textile market with foreign fabrics, saying that it has contributed to job loss, and economic downturn.
Speaking with newsmen, Oladega noted that foreign produced clothing have gained strong threshold in the country due to Nigeria inability to develop its textile and garment industries for large scale production.
She added that this decline due to inconsistent power supply, high production cost and limited access to modern manufacturing equipments have made production more expensive, thereby giving advantage to foreign products.
“Many of these countries have well-developed textile and garment industries that benefit from large-scale production, advanced technology, and lower operating costs.
“This allows them to produce clothes at prices that local manufacturers often struggle to match.
“Nigeria’s textile sector has faced decades of decline due to inconsistent power supply, high production costs, and limited access to modern manufacturing equipment. When production is expensive and slow, it becomes difficult for local brands to compete on price or volume.
“There is also the issue of consumer perception. For a long time, imported clothing has been seen as superior in quality or style, even when that is not always the case. Additionally, the widespread importation of second‑hand clothing further undermines the local market, as these garments are extremely cheap and easily accessible”, she said
The foremost fashion enthusiasts however called on the government to support the industry, and prioritize the revival of the textile and garment value chain through infrastructural development.
“The way forward lies in a combination of government support and industry innovation. The government must prioritize the revival of the textile and garment value chain through better infrastructure, reduced production costs, and incentives for manufacturers.
“Strengthening border controls and regulating second-hand clothing imports will also create a fairer competitive environment.
“From the industry side, we must continue to invest in modern technology, improve local sourcing of raw materials, and focus on quality craftsmanship.
“At Zara Eniola Limited, we believe that when local brands offer high-quality, well-tailored clothing that reflects our culture and meets global standards, consumers naturally develop confidence in made-in-Nigeria products.
“Encouraging the “buy Nigerian” mindset through awareness and collaboration among fashion stakeholders will further boost local patronage.
“Ultimately, Nigeria has the talent, creativity, and market size to build a strong local fashion industry. With the right support and commitment, we can transform the sector and position Nigerian-made clothing as a global competitor”, she added
