The Federal Government of Nigeria has raised fresh concerns that the rising consumption of hides and skins known locally as ponmo is threatening Nigeria’s leather industry which is valued at about $5 billion.
At the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo in Abuja the Director General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso said the growing demand for ponmo is depriving local manufacturers of the raw materials needed for leather production and export.
Ikemounso said Nigeria’s leather goods market was valued at $2.79bn in 2024 and is expected to reach $4.96bn by 2033.
He warned that this growth could slow down if hides continue to be diverted for consumption instead of industrial use.
“From an economic and industrial standpoint cow hides are one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials. Our nation possesses a vibrant leather industry with enormous potential for job creation foreign exchange earnings and contributions to GDP.”
Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, Director General, Raw Materials Research and Development Council
He noted that the global leather value chain is worth between $420bn and $1tn and said Nigeria can expand its share with the right policies better infrastructure and stable access to hides and skins.
“As of 2024 the Nigeria Leather Goods Market was valued at USD 2.79 billion with a forecast to grow to $4.96bn by 2033. Sadly the continuous diversion of hides for ponmo consumption denies our industries access to quality raw materials weakens our tanning and leather manufacturing sector and diminishes Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global leather market.”
Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, Director General, Raw Materials Research and Development Council
Ikemounso stressed that the campaign is not targeted at cultural practices or personal preferences but is aimed at ensuring that hides are used to strengthen the country’s industrial base.
He also highlighted health concerns. According to him ponmo offers very little nutritional value since it is mostly collagen with almost no protein or micronutrients.
He warned that some hides processed for ponmo are exposed to harmful substances like formalin and diesel which can cause organ damage and raise cancer risks.
The council has launched the campaign with the slogan “Wear Not Eat Your Leather” as part of a broader push to support local industries and reduce reliance on imported materials.
