Nigeria’s Garment Industry Gets a Boost: Mo’Afrique Launches Abuja Factory to Cut Imports and Expand Exports

Abuja, Nigeria – April 28, 2026 – Nigeria’s garment industry is taking a significant leap forward with the launch of a new state-of-the-art factory in Abuja by Mo’Afrique, a leading African fashion brand. The move aims to reduce the country’s reliance on imported clothing, create jobs, and position Nigerian garments for export across Africa and beyond under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.

Government Backs Local Production and Export Growth

The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the initiative, with Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, commending Mo’Afrique’s expansion as a model for enterprise growth. Speaking at the factory’s commissioning and the launch of the company’s new brand, Modish Formals, Oduwole emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting businesses that drive job creation and economic expansion.

“I will want to see your garments across the world through the AfCFTA. It is a priority for this administration because it generates employment and contributes to GDP.”

— Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment

Oduwole urged Mo’Afrique to leverage the AfCFTA platform to penetrate regional and global markets, highlighting that increased productivity, skills development, and competitiveness are central to government policy. She also praised Nigerian entrepreneurs for their resilience, noting that their determination is critical to economic growth despite operational challenges.

From Bespoke Fashion to Industrial-Scale Production

Founded 10 years ago, Mo’Afrique began as a bespoke luxury fashion house, known for creating garments that “tell stories, embody elegance, and empower the wearer.” The company’s expansion into industrial-scale production marks a strategic shift to address a gap in the local market for high-quality, high-volume garment manufacturing.

Omobolanle Olawale, Founder and Creative Director of Mo’Afrique, described the factory’s launch as a response to the growing demand for locally produced uniforms and professional wear. The new Modish Formals line targets bulk supply to schools, corporate organizations, and security agencies, sectors that have traditionally relied on imported clothing.

Nigeria’s $6 Billion Apparel Import Challenge

Nigeria’s garment industry has long struggled to compete with imports, with the country spending an estimated $6 billion annually on foreign-made apparel. A significant portion of fabrics used locally, including popular Ankara prints, are also sourced from abroad. Industry analysts attribute this dependency to weak manufacturing capacity, smuggling, and limited infrastructure.

The launch of Mo’Afrique’s factory is seen as a step toward reversing this trend. By scaling local production, the company aims to reduce import reliance while creating jobs and boosting the country’s non-oil export earnings. The factory’s strategic location in Abuja also positions it to serve as a hub for distribution across West Africa.

AfCFTA: A Gateway to Regional and Global Markets

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which came into effect in 2021, is a key driver of Nigeria’s push for increased garment exports. The agreement creates a single market for goods and services across 54 African countries, with a combined GDP of over $3 trillion. For Nigerian manufacturers, AfCFTA presents an opportunity to scale production and access new markets without the tariff barriers that previously hindered trade.

Oduwole reiterated the government’s support for businesses looking to expand under AfCFTA, stating that the administration is committed to addressing challenges in the operating environment, such as infrastructure deficits and regulatory bottlenecks. She called on other entrepreneurs to follow Mo’Afrique’s example, emphasizing that success often begins with small, strategic steps.

“A business that started 10 years ago in a bedroom has now become a factory. This is commendable.”

— Dr. Jumoke Oduwole

What’s Next for Mo’Afrique and Nigeria’s Garment Industry?

Mo’Afrique’s factory is expected to ramp up production in the coming months, with plans to expand its workforce and introduce new product lines. The company’s focus on quality and scalability could serve as a blueprint for other Nigerian fashion brands looking to transition from small-scale operations to industrial production.

For Nigeria, the success of initiatives like Mo’Afrique’s could have broader economic implications. Reducing apparel imports could save billions in foreign exchange, while increased exports under AfCFTA could diversify the country’s revenue streams beyond oil. However, challenges remain, including the necessitate for improved power supply, access to finance, and skills development to ensure the industry’s long-term competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

• Mo’Afrique launches a state-of-the-art garment factory in Abuja, marking a shift from bespoke fashion to industrial-scale production.
• The Federal Government backs the initiative, with Minister Jumoke Oduwole urging the company to leverage AfCFTA for regional and global exports.
• Nigeria spends $6 billion annually on imported clothing, highlighting the need for local production to reduce dependency.
• AfCFTA presents a major opportunity for Nigerian manufacturers to scale and access new markets across Africa.
• Challenges remain, including infrastructure deficits and regulatory bottlenecks, but the government has pledged support for businesses.

FAQ

What is Mo’Afrique?

Mo’Afrique is a Nigerian fashion brand founded 10 years ago, known for its bespoke luxury garments. The company has now expanded into industrial-scale production with the launch of a new factory in Abuja.

What is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)?

AfCFTA is a trade agreement among 54 African countries that aims to create a single market for goods and services. It eliminates tariffs on 90% of goods traded within the continent, making it easier for businesses to expand across Africa.

How much does Nigeria spend on imported clothing?

Nigeria spends an estimated $6 billion annually on imported apparel, according to industry estimates.

What are the benefits of local garment production?

Local production can reduce import dependency, save foreign exchange, create jobs, and boost non-oil export earnings. It also positions Nigerian brands to compete in regional and global markets.

What challenges does Nigeria’s garment industry face?

Key challenges include weak manufacturing capacity, limited infrastructure (such as unreliable power supply), smuggling, and regulatory bottlenecks. Access to finance and skills development are also critical issues.