Dr. Betta Edu, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has unveiled the ambitious plans of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to breathe new life into the local Adire industry, propelling it into both domestic and international markets.
The bustling markets of Itoku and Asero in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, were abuzz with excitement as the minister’s visit also provided an opportunity to educate market women about the various social safety net programs under her ministry’s purview.
Dr. Edu’s announcement underscored the federal government’s dedication to making substantial investments in the local fabric production sector.
This strategic move aims to combat poverty while simultaneously bolstering the nation’s economy through increased exports.
She left no room for doubt, assuring the market women that the government is resolute in promoting local Adire production, thereby reducing the prevalence of imported imitations.
The minister reiterated her commitment to employing government programs as a means of lifting millions of vulnerable Nigerians out of poverty, stating, “Our primary objective is to stimulate local production to meet the rising demand. By flooding the market with locally produced, government-subsidized Adire, we can effectively curb the influx of imported counterparts.”
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Dr. Edu further underscored the government’s plan to extend support to local Adire artisans through subsidies, mirroring the fuel subsidy. This strategic intervention would not only stimulate local production but also bolster exports.
She praised the state government’s vision of creating Adire hubs in Abuja and international embassies to facilitate the export of authentic Nigerian Adire.
Reinforcing the importance of supporting local manufacturers, the minister stated, “We’re promoting the genuine, locally made Adire. By offering subsidies and fostering growth in this sector, we aim to eliminate counterfeit products brought into the country, thus bolstering the local economy.”
In collaboration with the state government, Dr. Edu’s team identified several initiatives capable of positively impacting the lives of around 100,000 individuals in Ogun State.
Foremost among these is the revitalization of the Adire industry, a craft deeply rooted in the local culture and identity of the Ogun people.
Dr. Edu added, “Adire encompasses both traditional and modern production methods. We have visited production sites and market clusters to understand the costs involved and the final prices in the market. This insight will guide our efforts to establish new Adire production clusters through our poverty eradication schemes.”
Dr. Betta Edu’s visit and the government’s unwavering support for the Adire industry mark a significant stride toward community development, poverty reduction, and the preservation and global promotion of Nigerian culture and craftsmanship.
