The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed concern over the collapse of the once-thriving textile industries in Kano and Kaduna states, leading to the loss of over 500,000 jobs.
Speaking at the inauguration of the House Committee on the North West Development Commission (NWDC) at the National Assembly complex yesterday, Abbas described the decline as a significant economic setback for Northern Nigeria.
He noted that while the textile sector was a major employer in the 1980s, it now engages fewer than 20,000 people due to policy failures, insecurity, and systemic neglect.
“The textile industry was a cornerstone of our economy, providing jobs and boosting livelihoods. However, due to policy inertia, insecurity, and environmental degradation, this vital sector has been crippled,” Abbas said.
He stressed the need for urgent intervention, emphasizing that the NWDC is strategically positioned to address the region’s challenges. The Speaker tasked the commission with conducting a comprehensive needs assessment to identify priority areas for development.
“This exercise should inform the development of a robust 10-year strategic plan, a blueprint that will outline measurable goals and actionable strategies. Such a plan will not only serve as a roadmap but also as a vital tool for attracting partners, mobilizing resources, and ensuring accountability,” he stated.
Abbas also urged the NWDC to adopt a multi-stakeholder approach, engaging state governments, traditional institutions, civil society, and the private sector to ensure that interventions are sustainable and impactful.
He further called for innovative financing solutions, such as public-private partnerships and development bonds, to supplement government funding.
“This is the time for bold ideas and decisive action,” he added.
