The Nigeria’s paper industry leaders, government representatives, and academics have emphasised the urgent need to revamp Nigeria’s paper production sector, highlighting key challenges and opportunities for investment.
Speaking on behalf of the Hon. Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Enoh, Mrs. Abosede Ajayi-Ade at the 24th Nigeria International Book Fair (NIBF) underscored the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for industrial growth. She called on key players to explore revitalisation strategies and take advantage of tax incentives. According to her, significant opportunities exist for investors in recycling and reusing paper, which could reduce reliance on imports and boost local production.
“We must stop limiting our conversations to consumables. It’s time to position Nigeria’s paper sector as a driver of economic development,” she said.
Delivering the keynote paper presentation, Professor Abiodun Oluwadare of the University of Ibadan’s Department of Forest Products and Paper Technology lamented the state of the industry. He noted that the sector is hampered by a heavy dependence on imported raw materials, for instance, over $8 million was used in paper imports this is just like a leaf that is blown by wind.
“Publishers are like people standing in the wind—where raw materials are the gusts that push them back. Without a steady local supply, the industry remains vulnerable,” he said.
Professor Oluwadare urged stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric, asking, “Are you ready for paper production? It’s not enough to say yes—there must be action and commitment toward sustainability.”
He further stressed the need for local research and development, urging Nigeria to learn from countries like Japan that have harnessed innovation to build resilient industries. He also called for the production of low-cost book editions to improve literacy and access to educational materials.
