The Nigerian Senate called for a total ban on textile imports. Senators took the step on Tuesday during plenary to revive the country’s struggling textile sector and stimulate local manufacturing.
Senator Sunday Katung, who represents Kaduna South, sponsored the motion. He highlighted how unregulated imports devastated an industry that once ranked among Nigeria’s largest employers.
Katung noted that the first large-scale textile mill started in Kaduna in 1957 and later spread to other areas. He added that the sector supported industrial growth and generated significant employment.
Several lawmakers co-sponsored the motion. They included Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North, Senator Ibrahim Khalid from Kaduna North, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno from Borno North, and Senator Mustapha Khabeeb from Jigawa South-West. The group emphasized the need to protect local manufacturers from foreign competition, especially from China and Indonesia.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to impose an outright ban on textile imports. It also called for the revival of moribund textile factories across the country, with particular focus on the Kaduna-Kano axis.
In addition, senators asked authorities to provide more funding to the Bank of Industry to support manufacturers and to expand cotton cultivation among farmers.
Senator Sunday Katung stressed that revival efforts must cover the entire value chain from farming to production. He argued that these steps would create jobs and reduce youth restiveness. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin presided over the session and endorsed the resolutions. He assured that the chamber would monitor implementation closely.
The upper chamber adopted the motion through a voice vote. It directed relevant ministries to act urgently on the recommendations. Lawmakers believed the measures would boost local production, generate revenue, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base.
