FG launches export skills centre in Lagos, targets $422 million fashion e-commerce market by 2024

 

The Federal Government has launched the Export Skills Acquisition Centre (ESAC) in Apapa, Lagos, aiming to tap into Nigeria’s fashion e-commerce market, projected to reach $422.8 million by 2024.

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) spearheaded the establishment of the centre to boost non-oil exports and enhance Nigeria’s position in global markets.

The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, announced the launch via her official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, where she also made the $422.8 million projection.

She noted that the ESAC will further position Nigeria to capture opportunities in Africa’s $31 billion fashion industry.

According to her tweet, the initiative focuses on equipping youth and women with innovative skills in bag-making, accessories, product development, quality control, and international trade, fostering a new generation of globally competitive Nigerian exporters.

“Proud to launch the @OfficialNEPC Export Skills Acquisition Centre (ESAC) in Apapa, Lagos! This is a game-changer for Nigeria’s export sector. The Centre will empower our youth and women with innovative skills in bag-making and accessories, positioning Nigeria to capture opportunities in Africa’s $31bn fashion industry. 

“With specialized training in product development, quality control, and international trade, we’re building the next generation of Nigerian exporters,” the tweet read in part. 

It added, “Together, we’re creating pathways to global markets and economic prosperity. The future of Made-in-Nigeria products is bright!”

The centre is expected to not only drive economic inclusion but also create job opportunities, particularly for women and youth, who play a crucial role in sustainable development and national growth.

More insights 

• The Minister’s tweet provided additional insights into the key objectives of the newly launched Export Skills Acquisition Centre (ESAC), highlighting its focus on empowering youth and women through targeted skill acquisition.
• The initiative aligns with the priorities of the current administration, fostering entrepreneurship and promoting non-oil exports.
• By equipping participants with specialized training in areas like product development, quality control, and international trade, the ESAC aims to build a new generation of globally competitive Nigerian exporters.
• The centre’s establishment also promotes the development of Made-in-Nigeria products, creating essential pathways to international markets.
• While the broader impact of the initiative taps into Africa’s fashion industry and Nigeria’s growing e-commerce sector, the ESAC is intended to serve as a critical platform to unlock new trade opportunities.

The program positions Nigerian entrepreneurs to thrive in the competitive global economy, offering the tools and expertise necessary to succeed in an increasingly dynamic international market.

5 PROFITABLE BUSINESS TO CONSIDER IN LAGOS

 

 Lagos is the city where hustle meets opportunity. And if you’re looking to dive into entrepreneurship, you’re in the right place. With its bustling population, thriving economy, and endless energy, Lagos offers some of the best chances to turn your business dreams into reality.

Whether you’re a fresh entrepreneur or looking to expand your ventures, here are five profitable business ideas you can kick-start in Lagos.

Laundry business

One thing you should know is that Lagosians are busy. Between the crazy traffic and packed schedules, a lot of people do not have the time for laundry. That’s where you come in.

A laundry business can thrive in this fast-paced city because people prefer to drop off their clothes for cleaning rather than spend the time that likely do not have on it themselves. It’s simple, in-demand, and you don’t need huge capital to start.

Food service

If there’s one thing Lagosians can’t resist, it’s food. With remote work on the rise and people more than happy to pay for convenience, food delivery is a major win.

Whether it’s for the office crowd or small gatherings, especially with the daily rush to beat traffic, most people would rather order their meals than add any extra stress to their day.

Also, people eat every day, so you’ll always have customers. If you can add a delivery service to it, better for you. Everyone’s after the easy option.

POS business

With ATM lines that seem longer than Lagos traffic on a Monday morning — and no guarantee that you’ll even get cash when it’s finally your turn (no thanks to Emefiele’s ‘no-cash’ policy) — the Point-of-Sale (POS) business has become a real lifesaver.

People need cash, and your little POS stand could be their go-to spot. Many prefer it because it’s quick, convenient, and almost guaranteed to deliver cash, all for a small fee. Plus, it’s super easy to start.

All you need is a POS machine, a busy corner, and you could be earning between ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 daily.

Cleaning service

As Lagos continues to expand, so does the need for cleaning business services — whether it’s homes, offices, or event venues.

With people’s busy schedules and the never-ending dust of Lasgidi, cleaning services are in high demand.

Delivery service

In the age of online shopping and fast-paced living, delivery services are booming.  Lagosians are more than happy to pay for the convenience of having things brought straight to their doors.

Whether you focus on food delivery, packages, or errands, the opportunities are endless. All you need is a reliable mode of transportation and good organisational skills to start this business.