Abuja: 2025 Festival of Made-in-Nigeria Textile and Accessory Unveiled as Stakeholders Urge Greater Patronage

To support the diversification of the nation’s economy, the Wife of the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, has urged Nigerians to show stronger interest in patronizing Made-in-Nigeria textiles and accessories.

Speaking in Abuja at the unveiling of the 2025 Festival of Made-in-Nigeria Textile, Dr.

According to her, increased patronage of Nigerian-made textiles and accessories will also contribute to achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of job creation and poverty reduction.

Dr. Egbetokun, who also serves as President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, commended the organizers and pledged the Association’s support in promoting effective patronage of locally made textiles and accessories.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigeria Textile Manufacturers Association, Dr. Hamma Kwajarfa, expressed concern over the low patronage of locally made textiles by some Nigerians and called for a change in attitude to help revive the nation’s textile sector. He further stated the Association’s readiness to partner with the Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy to restore the lost glory of Nigeria’s textile industry.

In a message, the Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said increased patronage of Nigerian-made textiles and accessories would go a long way in promoting peace, unity, and cultural cohesion. Represented by Chief Cultural Officer Mrs. Joy Otokito, he reaffirmed NICO’s readiness to support the objectives of the Festival of Made-in-Nigeria Textile and Accessory.

Earlier, the Host and President of Made-in-Nigeria Textile (MINT), Dr. Uche Ibeh, said the unveiling of the 2025 Festival—FESTMiNT25—aims to celebrate Nigeria’s rich creative heritage and demonstrate the nation’s resilience and innovation. Represented by the Director of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, Ambassador Dockson Omoregie, he noted that the Made-in-Nigeria Textile initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu through festivals, exhibitions, pageantry, and other cultural programmes that promote economic and cultural growth.

“FESTMiNT is a yearly celebration of Nigeria’s cultural wealth, leaving an indelible impression by showcasing design, artistry, and promoting interest in Nigeria’s textiles while celebrating creativity and the tapestry decorating our diversity,” Dr. Ibeh said.

He added: “Our textiles are not just fabrics; they are a symbol of our identity, our culture, and our history. That is why FESTMiNT aims to bring together creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across the country to showcase their talents, share their stories, and learn from one another within Nigeria and globally.”

The event, themed “Promoting Nigeria’s Creative Heritage: Reviving Her Textile Glory,” featured exhibitions, panel discussions, and award presentations to several individuals and organisations, including Dr. (Mrs.) Elizabeth Egbetokun, the Wife of the IGP, for their contributions to the advancement of Nigeria’s cultural industry.