How New Leather Factories Will Cut Down on Ponmo Consumption Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Federal Government is set to launch mini leather factories in each of the 36 states, in a move aimed at revitalizing the country's leather industry, reducing the widespread consumption of animal hides known as ponmo, and generating employment. According to Mohammed Yakubu, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), these factories will process hides and skins into leather, bolstering Nigeria's export potential and tackling the local consumption of ponmo.

Yakubu, who also chairs the National Leather Policy Implementation Committee, emphasized the urgent need for improved infrastructure, particularly in providing affordable and reliable power to support the leather industry. "Poor infrastructure, especially high energy costs, has stalled the growth of our leather industry, which once had branches in Europe," Yakubu stated, urging the federal government to grant power concessions.

The establishment of mini tanneries aims to meet the high demand for leather, addressing a gap where only a limited number of industries currently process animal hides. "Lagos State alone slaughters about 100,000 cows daily, yet there are only 48 industries to process the hides. The new tanneries will help absorb excess production and reduce ponmo consumption," Yakubu noted.

While the proposed mini tanneries are expected to produce one to five tonnes of leather weekly, Yakubu also highlighted the long-term benefits of employment for Nigerian youths and foreign exchange generation. "This initiative aligns with our push to transition ponmo from kitchen tables to industrial production," he added, acknowledging that the shift may impact ponmo vendors but aims to create more significant economic benefits.

The plan underscores the government's broader vision to support sustainable growth, bring back Nigeria's leather industry, and expand the country's global market reach. The consultation with stakeholders continues as NILEST works to ensure the initiative's successful rollout.