A Nigerian clinical scientist and nutritionist has revealed how the country is loosing out of global leather industry's $75 billion.
Ekiti Gov. Ayo Fayose purchasing ponmo in the market
Don of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, OAU, Ile-Ife, Olufemi Aluko, says Nigeria is losing out in the pack of countries competing for the $75 billion global leather industry because of ponmo consumption.
He blamed the situation on the Nigeria’s neglect of the leather products industry in favour of oil production and consumption of its hides and skin as ponmo.
He cited global industry report as confirming the situation and urged the nation’s policy drivers to refocus on the sector as it holds great potential for export earning and employment. He advised the FG to create sound, supportive and transparent policies that will revive leather goods industries in Nigeria as it looks at diversifying the economy.
A Nutritionist at Garki Hospital General Hospital, Abuja, Yemisi Olowookere, said in spite of the fact that 'Ponmo' has been popularised mostly by the people of the South West, it has no nutritional value.