The Embroidery Chief has launched a youth-focused initiative designed to combat unemployment by empowering young Nigerians to build sustainable businesses in the fashion industry and harness the country’s rich creative potential.

The organisation highlighted that Nigeria’s fashion industry remains underutilized, operating at just 1% of its true potential.

Founder of Embroidery Chief, Mr. Lukman Abdulsalam, disclosed this in Abuja during a stakeholders’ engagement themed “Stitching the Future: Building Sustainable Embroidery Businesses in Africa,” held in collaboration with Chinese embroidery machine manufacturers, Dahao and Futong.

He noted that the initiative is designed to empower young Nigerians with practical embroidery and fashion design skills that can be turned into profitable ventures.

According to Abdulsalam, the project will kick off with the establishment of innovation hubs in 10 states, including Lagos and Kano. Each hub will house 50 embroidery machines, provided at subsidized rates to ensure accessibility for young entrepreneurs.

He said that many young Nigerians already possess natural creativity but lack the technical skills to fully express and monetize their talent.

He explained that the programme is structured into three training phases: one month for digital design, two weeks for machine operation, and one month for technical repairs. The goal, he said, is to turn raw creativity into economic opportunity.

Abdulsalam said: “The purpose of this gathering is to raise awareness about key issues in the fashion industry, how individuals can upscale, identify existing gaps, and connect with the right people and opportunities.

“We aim to collaborate with the government, which is why we have key stakeholders here today. Our plan is to establish hubs in about 10 states. Each hub will receive approximately 50 embroidery machines, and we will train end users on machine operation, technical support, and digital design creation.

“This initiative will begin with 10 states as a pilot. We are committed to empowering individuals by providing these machines at subsidized rates, making them affordable for emerging entrepreneurs.

“In Nigeria, many people still lack the technical knowledge to properly size and digitize designs using software. That’s why training is essential. Once people learn how to use both the machines and the software effectively, it will foster healthy competition and unlock creativity across the board.

“Youth will be able to create designs on sneakers, shoes, bags, clothing, even decorative frames. The possibilities are vast, and with the right skills, we can unlock an entirely new wave of innovation in the fashion industry.”

In his remarks, the Senior Sales Executive at Dahao, Michael Zuo, said that the company is seriously considering setting up a branch office in Nigeria to support the growth of the embroidery ecosystem.

Zuo said: “We are here to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria. It’s my first time in the country, and I’m impressed by the people and the potential. We believe Nigeria’s market is very important and promising.”

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Taiwo Bashir, who represented the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Hon. Adamson Ayinde, described the initiative as a “golden opportunity” for Nigerian youths.

He noted that there are numerous areas where the government can collaborate, which is likely why the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President asked him to attend the event on his behalf.

He also reiterated the government’s willingness to partner with private sector stakeholders to develop industrial skills and create jobs for young Nigerians.