By MaryAnn Chukwuma.
The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has led a strong call for Nigerians to embrace Made-in-Nigeria products as a sustainable strategy for creating jobs and accelerating economic growth.
Governor Soludo made the call while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026, held on, August 3, in Asaba, Delta State.
He said Nigeria cannot create the kind of jobs its growing population requires while citizens continue patronising imported goods instead of supporting products manufactured by local industries and entrepreneurs.
The Governor noted that many participants wore suits imported from Europe, America and China, urging Nigerians to deliberately promote African-made products, especially those proudly produced within the country.
Sharing his personal experience, Governor Soludo disclosed that he has consistently worn Akwete fabric, produced in Akwete, Abia State, after his daughter introduced the indigenous textile to him in 2019.
He explained that sustained patronage of the fabric has improved the livelihoods of women producing Akwete cloth, increased employment opportunities and expanded income within the local textile-producing community.
Governor Soludo also applauded Nigeria’s First Lady for announcing a ₦2 billion intervention to expand Akwete fabric production and for pledging to wear the indigenous textile at official national ceremonies.
According to him, if Nigeria’s estimated 247 million citizens consistently choose Made-in-Nigeria products, the country could create more than ten million jobs while strengthening local industries and reducing import dependence.
Governor Soludo further proposed that future economic summits should encourage participants to wear Made-in-Nigeria attire, stressing that deliberate support for indigenous products would stimulate industrialisation, employment and sustainable national prosperity.
MaryAnn is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
