Nigeria’s ambition to rebuild its cotton and textile industry has stalled as genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties fall short of expectations and systemic weaknesses drag the sector down.
Despite years of investment in transgenic strains, domestic production remains low and the country continues to import the bulk of its cotton needs.
Crop science expert Michael Uguru of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, warns that varieties such as MRC 7377BG11 and MRC 7361BG11 heralded for their potential to boost yields and resist pests have delivered only marginal improvements.
“After more than five years, cotton growth remains suboptimal,” he says, calling on the government to redouble efforts to improve seed quality, agronomic support, and extension services across cotton‑growing regions.
Uguru argues that the heavy focus on transgenic seeds has diverted crucial attention and funding from other pillars of industry health, including robust research and development, reliable input supply chains, and the urgent revival of textile mills. “Without strengthening these foundations,” he cautions, “no single seed technology can lift the entire value chain.”
Anibe Achimugu, president of the National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN), adds that climate change and persistent pest pressures have only exacerbated the industry’s woes.
“Our farmers face unpredictable weather and relentless insect damage,” she explains. “These challenges, combined with weak processing networks, make it impossible for Nigerian cotton to compete internationally.”
However, there is guarded optimism that policy action could spark a turnaround. The newly established Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Board has been tasked with overhauling the sector from seed research and input distribution to ginning and fabric production. If the board can coordinate targeted investments and enforce quality standards, stakeholders believe Nigeria’s cotton farmers and textile workers may finally see a path to sustainable growth.
