Textile imports rise 17% to N267.7 bn

By Yinka Kolawole

The value of textile materials imported into Nigeria increased by 17 percent year‑on‑year to N267.7 billion in the first quarter of 2026 (Q1’26), underscoring the country’s ongoing dependence on imported textile products despite efforts to boost local production.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) show that textile imports rose from N228.83 billion in Q1’25. On a quarter‑on‑quarter basis, imports also climbed 8.94 percent from N245.73 billion recorded in Q4’25.

This development comes amid renewed calls to revive Nigeria’s struggling textile industry, following a Senate resolution that urged the Federal Government (FG) to ban textile imports and promote domestic manufacturing.

However, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has cautioned the FG to proceed carefully, warning that a blanket import ban without adequate preparation could undermine the intended goal.

Speaking in a television interview, MAN Director‑General Segun Ajayi‑Kadir said Nigeria has the capacity to meet a significant portion of its textile needs, but stressed that reviving the sector requires more than legislative resolutions.

According to him, the government must first demonstrate a commitment to patronising locally produced textiles and fully enforce policies that encourage the use of made‑in‑Nigeria products.

“For instance, are we going to enforce the patronage of made‑in‑Nigeria textiles within the government? When the National Assembly passed this resolution, how many of them were wearing made‑in‑Nigeria garments?” he asked.

Ajayi‑Kadir noted that any import ban should be accompanied by diligent implementation of Executive Order 003 and a broader “Nigeria First” policy that prioritises local products across government institutions, including the Presidency, National Assembly, military, uniformed agencies and schools.

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