(Abuja, Nigeria) – In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable production and uplifting local industries, Dr Betta Edu, Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has announced plans to provide subsidies for Adire, a distinctive and locally-produced fabric. During a visit to the fabric’s production grounds, Dr Edu expressed her commitment to creating an industrial hub that will not only support the growth of the Adire industry but also generate substantial revenue for market women across the country.
Highlighting the importance of promoting homegrown talent and discouraging dependence on imported goods, Dr Betta Edu emphasized the need to ban foreign Adire products and instead focus on fostering local production to meet the rising demand. By incentivizing sustainable production practices through subsidies, the government intends to bolster the Adire industry, creating employment opportunities and encouraging economic growth in Nigeria.
Commending the efforts of Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Dr Edu acknowledged his commitment to creating hubs in Abuja where original Adire products will be sold. These hubs will serve as a platform to showcase the unique beauty and craftsmanship of Adire to a global audience, providing local artisans and weavers with new avenues to market their creations.
Dr Betta Edu underscored the significance of promoting Adire globally, recognizing that increased exposure would not only enable more people to appreciate the fabric’s artistic value but also empower individuals and their families economically. By nurturing the development of the Adire industry, Nigeria aims to tap into its rich cultural heritage while uplifting those involved in its production.
As the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu’s visionary plans to support Adire production with subsidies and create an industrial hub demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth within the textile industry. With a focus on empowering market women and promoting local talent, these initiatives aim to create long-term economic opportunities for Nigerian artisans and weavers, ensuring a prosperous future for the vibrant Adire industry.