Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has visited the historic Austrian Lace factory in Agege, Lagos, in a renewed push to strengthen local manufacturing and promote Nigerian-made products.
Oduwole disclosed the visit on her official X handle on Thursday, describing the factory as the last of its kind in Nigeria.
According to the minister, the Agege-based factory has been producing indigenous cotton lace for more than 45 years, making it an important part of Nigeria’s textile and manufacturing heritage.
She commended the management and workers of Austrian Lace for sustaining the business over the decades despite challenges facing the country’s textile industry.
Oduwole also stressed the need for increased support for indigenous enterprises, particularly manufacturers contributing to local production, employment and the preservation of Nigeria’s industrial heritage.
The minister’s visit comes amid efforts by the Federal Government to deepen domestic manufacturing, reduce dependence on imported goods and encourage the consumption of locally produced products.
She said supporting businesses such as Austrian Lace would be critical to reviving Nigeria’s textile sector and ensuring that indigenous manufacturers remain competitive.