FG Moves to Revive Leather Industry
The Federal Government has declared its readiness to reposition Nigeria’s livestock sector by using the leather value chain as a strategic anchor for growth, export diversification, and massive job creation. Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, stated this while receiving three separate delegations in Abuja - the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) led by Ambassador Usman Darma, the North West Development Commission (NWDC) led by Prof. S. A. Maaji, and the Society for Grassland Research and Development in Nigeria (SGRDN) led by Prof. Olanite Jimoh. Maiha noted that Kano remains Nigeria’s traditional hub for the leather and livestock economy, with vast opportunities in tannery operations, red meat processing, feed and fodder development, and dairy. He maintained that Nigeria must break away from exporting raw hides and skins to processing and producing finished leather goods such as shoes, bags, belts, and industrial products for both local and global markets. “With over five million school-age children in Kano alone, there is already a natural domestic market for leather shoes and related goods,” the Minister said. He added, “If we expand and modernise our tannery operations, not only will we provide affordable quality products for Nigerians, but we will also position our leather industry as a leading global player. Kano’s commercial history, irrigation dams, and skilled workforce make it the heartbeat of this transformation.” He further revealed that the Ministry was developing NBTE-approved training curricula for feedlotting, fodder compounding, dairy, and leather works, aimed at empowering 1,000 youth and women in every state with certification that enhances access to finance and jobs. On fodder and pasture development, Maiha stressed that Kano’s network of irrigation dams and suitable agro-ecological conditions could be harnessed not only for local feed production but also for exports to markets in the Gulf States. “Leather is our entry point, but fodder, red meat, and dairy must be developed alongside. Clustering feedlot operators, processors, and marketers will ensure integrated growth,” he added. In their remarks, the visiting delegations pledged to support the Ministry’s strategic vision, by aligning livestock development with regional socio-economic growth initiatives. Ben. Bem Goong Director, Press and Public Relations Department 25th September, 2025
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