Protect textile industry through soft loans: Nigeria's lower house

It called for regulation of textile imports and encouragement of domestic textile production.

The decision followed the adoption of a motion on notice sponsored by lawmaker Garba Muhammad, who noted that the domestic textile industry, with over 180 mills in operation, has significantly affected the manufacturing sector, making it one of the highest employers.

Revitalising the textile industry would create employment, diversify the economy and enhance socio-economic development, he was cited as saying by domestic media reports.

He expressed concern over the layoff of thousands of workers from companies like Kaduna Textile, Ka Nigeria Textile and First Spinners.

Government policies like higher taxation and extensive liberalisation are leading to extensive imports of textile materials, he noted.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)