Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra has called on Nigerians to embrace locally produced fabrics, saying increased patronage of indigenous textiles would create jobs, strengthen local industries and reduce dependence on imports.
The governor made the appeal on Monday while delivering a goodwill message at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, themed “Harnessing Our Strengths, Unlocking Our Potential.”
According to him, the Federal Government’s ongoing economic reforms have created an opportunity for states and local governments to reposition their economies and attract investments. He stressed that cooperation among the three tiers of government is essential to achieving sustainable economic development.
Soludo expressed concern over Nigerians’ continued preference for imported fabrics despite the country’s rich textile and fashion heritage. He cited his personal decision to wear the locally woven Akwete fabric, noting that the move had encouraged more people to adopt the material, boosting demand, creating employment and increasing earnings for local producers.
He said a nationwide commitment to wearing Nigerian-made clothing could generate millions of jobs and significantly strengthen the economy.
The governor also proposed that future investment summits should encourage participants to wear locally manufactured attire as a practical way of promoting indigenous industries and stimulating domestic production.
Speaking on the economy, Soludo said recent reforms had improved Nigeria’s macroeconomic stability, creating a more predictable environment for both local and foreign investors. He attributed the positive outlook to exchange rate reforms and stronger foreign reserves, which he said had contributed to greater economic stability.
He maintained that the improved investment climate would encourage increased capital inflows and support development across the country.
While acknowledging the progress, Soludo emphasised that no state could achieve lasting economic prosperity alone. He urged stronger collaboration between states and highlighted the need for Delta and Anambra to deepen economic ties, particularly following the completion of the Second Niger Bridge.
He said both states should see themselves as complementary economic hubs capable of partnering in trade, industrialisation, infrastructure development and investment promotion.
The governor also commended the organisers of the summit for focusing on practical outcomes rather than speeches, expressing hope that the discussions would translate into concrete investments and business partnerships.
He further advised state governments to sustain investment promotion efforts beyond periodic summits by ensuring effective follow-up on commitments made by investors.
Soludo congratulated the Delta State Government for hosting the summit and wished participants productive deliberations and successful investment outcomes.