Nigerian Senate Proposes Total Ban on Textile Imports

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Senate moved to implement a total ban on textile imports as part of a comprehensive strategy to revive the country's once-thriving textile industry. Senator Katung Marshal sponsored the motion, co-sponsored by nine other senators, highlighting the industry's critical role in job creation and economic growth.

The Senate urged the federal government and relevant ministries to take urgent steps to resuscitate textile manufacturing companies across Nigeria. The textile sector, which was once the third largest in Africa, has faced a steady decline since the late 1990s due to obsolete machinery, inadequate working capital, and poor electricity supply.

The situation worsened after the removal of import restrictions in 2010, leading to a significant increase in textile imports, particularly from China, Indonesia, and Taiwan. The Senate emphasized that reviving the textile industry could help address youth unemployment and poverty in Nigeria.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin assured that the Senate would monitor the implementation of the resolution to ensure tangible results.