In a strategic move to tap into Nigeria’s leather market, the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), headquartered in Zaria, Kaduna State, has announced plans to establish mini tanneries in all 36 states.
This ambitious project aims to transform Nigeria’s abundant hides and skins into high-quality leather, creating a profitable and sustainable resource for both the domestic and international markets.
Speaking to the press in Abuja on Sunday, NILEST’s Director-General, Prof. Mohammed Yakubu, shared that the mini tannery initiative is set to enhance the country’s leather industry infrastructure and implement modern processing technology.
This effort aligns with the broader National Leather Policy and seeks to revitalize the sector by producing export ready leather, thereby boosting Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and expanding job opportunities.
Yakubu, who also chairs the National Leather Policy Implementation Committee, stressed that leather represents a valuable national resource with the potential to drive economic growth.
However, a significant challenge persists much of Nigeria’s hides and skins are currently consumed as “Kpomo,” a popular delicacy, which limits the leather industry’s growth.
“We are consuming hides and skins as Kpomo because the available industries cannot absorb all that is produced, for instance, Lagos alone slaughters about 100,000 cows daily, yet there are only 48 industries capable of processing this valuable resource into leather.”
Yakubu, National Leather Policy Implementation Committee
He noted that this disparity has resulted in Nigeria’s hides and skins often ending up in the food market instead of leather production.
To address this gap, the planned mini tanneries will act as resource hubs, absorbing excess hides and skins and converting them into leather products.
The facilities are expected to process between one to five tonnes of leather each week, creating opportunities for local manufacturing and exports.
Yakubu revealed that NILEST is actively working to discourage the consumption of hides and skins as Kpomo by launching campaigns and initiatives.
However, he acknowledged the livelihoods tied to Kpomo sales and emphasized the institute’s interim support for the vendors.
Beyond local markets, NILEST has plans to supply unprocessed leather to other parts of Nigeria, such as the South East, South West, Jos, and Kano.
This interregional approach is expected to boost leather trade and foster collaborative growth within the country.
Experts suggest that the Nigerian leather industry has substantial untapped potential. A report by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group estimated Nigeria’s annual leather export potential at over $1 billion, underscoring the economic significance of this sector.
For Nigeria’s leather industry to thrive, Yakubu emphasized the need for reliable and affordable power. He pointed out that competing with global leather powerhouses like China, Brazil, and India will require robust infrastructure support from the government.
Photo Credits – Marie Claire
