To boost Nigeria’s creative sector and empower young entrepreneurs, Embroidery Chief, in collaboration with Chinese embroidery machine manufacturers Dahao and Futong, has announced plans to establish 10 embroidery innovation hubs across the country.
The initiative was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement event in Abuja themed “Stitching the Future: Building Sustainable Embroidery Businesses in Africa.” Speaking at the event, Founder of Embroidery Chief, Mr. Lukman Abdulsalam, said the project is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical embroidery and fashion design skills that can be transformed into sustainable businesses.
According to Abdulsalam, the hubs—starting in states like Lagos and Kano—will each be equipped with 50 embroidery machines provided at subsidized rates. Training will be conducted in three phases, including one month for design, two weeks for machine operation, and another month for technical repairs.
“Our goal is to raise awareness on how individuals can upscale in the fashion industry, identify gaps, and access relevant opportunities,” Abdulsalam said. “Many young Nigerians are creative but lack the technical skills needed to digitize and monetize their designs. This project will help bridge that gap.”
He added that the initiative will enable youth to apply embroidery on various items such as sneakers, bags, clothing, and home décor, unlocking new opportunities in the fashion and design industry.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Michael Zuo, Senior Sales Executive at Dahao, revealed the company is considering opening a branch in Nigeria to support the growing embroidery ecosystem.
In a goodwill message, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Hon. Adamson Ayinde—represented by Dr. Taiwo Bashir—described the project as a significant opportunity for Nigerian youth.
“The embroidery industry is a multi-million dollar sector that remains largely untapped in Nigeria,” Bashir said. “With proper collaboration, this initiative can drive economic empowerment and open new frontiers for youth across the country.”
