The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to ban and criminalize the importation of Adire/Kampala and other locally produced fabric imitations.
The resolution, prompted by Rep. Afolabi Afuape’s motion (APC-Ogun), underscores the detrimental impact of foreign imitations on the local fabric industry. The influx of these imitations has led to a decline in the livelihood of local producers and resulted in job losses.
Recognizing the importance of promoting local fabric production, the House calls upon the Federal Government to support the Adire/Kampala fabric industry in Nigeria.
This move aims to protect the local cottage industry and conserve scarce foreign exchange resources.
To bolster the local fabric industry, the House mandates its Committee on Commerce to collaborate with the National Directorate of Employment in establishing formal training and orientation programs for local fabric producers.
These programs will focus on imparting skills, ensuring quality control, enhancing marketing strategies, and improving business management practices.
Furthermore, the House emphasizes the need for rigorous monitoring by relevant agencies to evaluate the progress of Nigeria’s cottage industry periodically.
In addition to these measures, the House directs its Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics, and Values, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency, to launch a nationwide campaign promoting the cultural significance of Adire/Kampala fabrics.
This initiative seeks to raise awareness about the historical and cultural value of these indigenous fabrics, fostering appreciation and support for locally made products.