Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has resumed his “many” engagements after a short time off “on the doctor’s advice”.
Obi had earlier made known his ill health, few days ago, after attending an engagement in Enugu State; he was adviced by doctor to take some time and rest for his recovery.
Resuming his engagements, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Coalition member, headed straight to keep his promise by visiting an SME business owned by a person he met during the course of his activities.
Obi said on X, according to studies, “SMEs are the backbone of any economy especially for developing nations”, adding, Nigeria is yet to take advantage of the “$1.7 trillion” textile and apparel industry, which “employs over 300 million people”.
“Nigeria’s textile industry has collapsed to a regrettable level”, according to the 2023 Labour Party (LP) Presidential candidate, he added, the Industry brings in “little to nothing” to the economy of Nigeria.
Obi said: “Let me begin by thanking everyone who wished me well during my short time away from engagements on the doctor’s advice.
“I resumed my many engagements yesterday, and I started by honouring a promise to visit an SME business owned by someone I met during the course of my activities, and I was truly delighted to listen to the owner.
“The use of remarkable fabrics and textiles, especially from the Akwete people of Nigeria, to produce elegant and world-class sought-after fashion pieces sustains the impact of our culture on the global stage.
“Studies have consistently shown that SMEs are the backbone of any economy especially for developing nations. Globally, the textile and apparel industry is valued at $1.7 trillion and employs over 300 million people. Nigeria is yet to fully tap into this.
“In countries like Bangladesh, textiles account for over 70% of exports, which is about $50 billion; this alone is more than what Nigeria earns from oil. These are clear examples of how textiles can drive growth, create jobs, and power exports in an economy.
“By contrast, Nigeria’s textile industry has collapsed to a regrettable level, where it contributes little to nothing to our economy. This shows an untapped potential in our economy.
“A New Nigeria is POssible.”
