The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the creation of a National Cotton and Textile Board to oversee the planned revival of Nigeria’s cotton and textile industries.
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State made this known while briefing journalists following Thursday’s NEC meeting, which was chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The session marked the second NEC meeting of 2025 and focused on reviewing the nation’s prevailing economic challenges to identify sustainable solutions.
Governor Uzodinma disclosed that, after engaging with stakeholders in the cotton and textile sector, the Council was satisfied with the proposals presented and endorsed the establishment of a board, alongside six regional offices, to coordinate sector-wide activities aimed at revitalising previously dormant cotton and textile operations.
“The presentation outlined strategies for rejuvenating the cotton industry in Nigeria, with the aim of stimulating renewed growth in the sector. Consequently, the Council considered and approved the establishment of a Cotton, Textile, and Garment Development Board to serve as a regulatory body for the industry.
“The Council also sanctioned the creation of a national headquarters and six regional offices, each located within one of the country’s geo-political zones,” he said.
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The governor further explained that the initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the private sector as part of broader economic reforms by the current administration.
“The presentation highlighted the vast potential for expanding the cotton value chain in Nigeria and identified it as a key component of the government’s economic stimulus strategy.
“In order to ensure functionality and effectiveness, the Council agreed to adopt a public-private partnership model. It was also resolved that the chairperson of the board should be drawn from the private sector, while the board’s activities will be funded through the textile import levy currently administered by the Nigeria Customs Service,” Uzodinma added.
He noted that the Council welcomed the contributions made by the cotton and textile sector in the past and expressed confidence that with proper coordination and renewed investment, the sector could once again make a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy
