The Africa fashion week Nigeria 2016 started with a conference on the 1st of July, 2016 at Eko Hotel and Suites Victoria Island Lagos State. The conference was kicked started by Prof Akinwunmi, who stated that textiles and materials is considered the second largest sector everywhere in the world. According to him, the importance of textile and materials to the development of any country's economy can not be overemphasized. And further noted opportunities which abounds in the fashion industry. He also commended the efforts of Ms Ronke Ademiluyi, the founder of AFWN, According to him, AFWN has succeeded in showcasing the talents of the Nigerian youths, and said the onus is on all of us as Nigerians to support made in Nigeria goods.
The guest speaker of the occasion, Hon. Min of State, Industry, Trade and Investment, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar, threw more light on government's readiness and support to the textile and materials industry in the country. The minister talked about government's willingness in reviving of power sector and reviewing of the multiple taxation which is a burden to business owners.
Dr. Akinkumi Mustapha, the Hon. commissioner of Finance for Lagos State during the keynote address, noted the absence of fashion institute in our institutions and said he had spoken with the management of LASU to inculcate fashion into the school curriculum. The Commissioner further stated the significant role of the textile industry in the provision of income and jobs in any country and therefore commended Ms Ademiluyi for her initiative. The speaker of the occasion, Mr Amar Kwajaffa, the Director General of Nigerian Textiles Manufacturing Association also spoke on the opportunities that abounds in the fashion industry. He said these opportunities can only be harnessed if there were favourable and conducive environment for them to thrive. According to him, some factors are negating the growth and success of the industry. Such factors are Government's inability to provide steady power supply in the country, which has resulted in the closing of some of the textile industries, and also increase in the cost of production. Also the country's porous border has made it possible for smuggling of counterfeit and low quality textile materials into the country thereby causing more harm than good to the local market. Mrs Adebisi Ajayi of the Bank of Industry also explained the bank's readiness in making it easy and accessible for start ups who need loans.
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| Ronke Ademiluyi AFWN founder |
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