The federal government has inaugurated the Sector Skills Council for fashion, leatherwork, and accessories to drive its sectoral approach to national development.

At the inauguration in Abuja on Thursday, Idris Bugaje, the executive secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), expressed concern over the high percentage of imported textiles in the country.

Mr Bugaje explained that this prompted the establishment of the 30-member council to revive the industry and make it viable for national development.

According to him, it is essential to equip young Nigerians with lifelong skills for self-reliance and global competitiveness.

He also urged members to leverage their experience to support the government in achieving its Renewed Hope Agenda to revitalise the textile sector.

“Government regulates, but the private sector should drive the development of this council. This is the 19th council we are inaugurating. The 18th was the sector council on agriculture.

“I have seen a number of Nigerian products in other African countries fetching significant income for those exporting them.

“If we can organise this sector and train young Nigerians within the framework of the Nigerian School Qualification Framework, I think this sector can be a major revenue generator for Nigeria,” he said.

The chairperson of the council, Funmi Ladipo, called for synergy among members and pledged to work diligently to achieve the council’s objectives.

“They are industries with deep cultural roots and immense economic potential. These sectors have the capacity to employ millions, empower youth, drive Nigeria’s global competitiveness, and boost manufacturing.

“However, to fully unlock this potential, we must bridge the gap between skilled training and industry needs.

“That is precisely why the Sector Skills Council exists to create a structured, demand-driven skills ecosystem that equips our workforce with the expertise required by today’s evolving market,” she said.

The council’s scope of reference includes reducing skills gaps, increasing opportunities, developing skills plans, maintaining inventories, and engaging in advocacy and policy influence.

The event featured the confirmation of the national patron of the Sector Skills Council for fashion, leatherwork, and accessories, conferred on the wife of the Zamfara State Governor, Hurayya Lawal.

Similarly, the Dangote Academy received a certificate of recognition for its support in the skills sub-sector.

(NAN)