The Nigerian fashion industry is a vibrant and dynamic sector with immense potential to contribute significantly to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. As one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, the fashion sector plays a pivotal role in job creation, revenue generation, and economic development. The optimum exploration of the fashion value chain, from raw material production to retail, can significantly boost economic impact.
The global fascination with Nigeria’s fashion and costumes presents lucrative avenues for wealth creation and the realisation of foreign exchange earnings for the country because it houses numerous talented dressmakers and innovative garment technologists. What’s drawing the world’s attention to Nigeria’s clothing, fashion, and design? The answer lies in the uniqueness, vibrancy, elegance, charm, allure, and comfort of traditional Nigerian designs. Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa, captivates the world with its rich culture and diverse people. Therefore the government will be doing the economy a great deal of service by incentivising investors willing to explore the export markets.
The global demand for African costumes is on the rise, from renowned international retail outlets and fashion houses to individual Africans in the Diaspora. This growing demand is further supported by initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which grants duty-free access to the United States markets for select sub-Saharan African countries, Nigeria inclusive. Nigerian fashion professionals can leverage such export opportunities.
Hosting and organising more fashion events and exhibitions provides a platform for both established designers and emerging talents to showcase their unique creations and designs. This initiative also aims to encourage investment from governments and financial institutions. Events such as Lagos Fashion Week, known as one of Africa’s premier fashion gatherings, consistently attract attention from national and international media.
The need for more fashion exhibitions of this calibre to highlight the vibrancy of the fashion scene, celebrate diverse cultures, and contribute to industry growth cannot be overemphasised. These events not only create business opportunities but also increase visibility for the industry, ultimately leading to further development and success.
Value chain development plays a crucial role in bolstering the industry’s economic impact and its contribution to GDP growth. For instance, there are numerous investment opportunities across various sectors within the fashion value chain, such as:
Tourism and cultural promotion can also play a pivotal role. According to a report by the UN World Tourism Organisation, international tourist arrivals saw a significant 7 per cent increase in 2017, marking the highest growth rate since 2010, where a consistent average of around 4 per cent was observed. The trend continued in 2018, with a five per cent year-on-year growth in international tourist arrivals during the first nine months. One of the reasons people go on tourism is to be able to experience the touch of fashion and culture.
During my secondary school days, I witnessed firsthand how schools in my state organised excursions to various tourism centres across Nigeria. One notable visit was to the Memphis Art Gallery, part of the Olumo Rock Tourist Complex in Ikija, Abeokuta. This complex showcases artworks reflecting the Yoruba culture, particularly the Egbas, providing a platform for public appreciation and engagement with our rich cultural heritage.
Nigeria is abundantly blessed with cultural and artistic treasures, making tourism a potential economic powerhouse. To fully harness this potential, the government must prioritise effective management encompassing planning, organisation, control, leadership, and coordination of our cultural assets.
It is imperative for the government to elevate culture and tourism as focal points in national economic development initiatives to boost the fashion industry. These sectors not only contribute to infrastructure enhancement but also facilitate cultural exchanges, job creation, and international collaborations.
Numerous tourism centres across the country, like the aforementioned, serve as attractions for both local and foreign visitors. Recognising that culture forms the foundation of societal progress, the government must acknowledge its indispensable role in driving social and economic advancements.
The fashion industry needs government support to ensure intellectual property protection for fashion innovations. It needs the government to implement good policies, invest in infrastructure, and provide financial support. I should also mention that the government aiding collaboration between fashion brands and non-governmental organisations will also reduce the many challenges currently encountered by fashion professionals.
Elizabeth May, founder of Queenliz Fashion Academy Ltd, can be reached via 07045153535