Why government should support Nigeria’s laundry sector,by FPDA boss Adebayo

Chairman of the Fabric Professionals and Dry Cleaners Association, Enibikun Adebayo, has underscored the importance of government support for the country’s laundry industry currently valued at $1.8 billion.
He said: “We are calling on the government to support potential and aspiring dry cleaners with funding from the Bank of Industry. The government could channel those funds into the laundry industry to help entrepreneurs with capital and equipment.

“We are seeking government backing to demonstrate that this industry can generate significant employment. This is why we are partnering with LG to advance the conversation, attract more investment, and involve more people in this lucrative sector.”

Adebayo spoke at a masterclass for dry cleaners organised by the CleanAce Foundation and Academy in partnership with LG Electronics.

He said the laundry industry is expected to hit about $3bn over the next 10 years.

Adebayo described the industry as one of the largest employers in the country, tasking universities to collaborate with the industry to offer vocational courses in laundry and dry cleaning, for more people to become self-employed.

“The laundry industry is valued at approximately $1.8bn in 2024 and is expected to expand to about $3bn over the next 10 years.
“The industry is developing, and we have recently established the Fabricare Professionals and Dry Cleaners Association, which has also launched the first and largest laundry exhibition in Nigeria, and possibly Africa.

“This initiative is driving a shift in people’s perception of the industry, with many now considering a career in fabric care.

“We are promoting a professional approach to the industry, aiming to attract genuine interest, as the way the industry is marketed is influencing the younger generation.

“We need the government to create an environment that will encourage younger people to explore opportunities in this industry,” he added.

Head, Commercial Laundry Business at LG Electronics in West Africa, Samuel Odenusi, said as urban populations expand, the value of the industry continues to rise.

He urged government to also provide the necessary infrastructure to support SMEs in Nigeria to create wealth and employment opportunities.

The LG official noted that Nigeria’s laundry industry has a huge potential and it is crucial to economic growth because as urban population grows yearly, the value also increases due to demand for its services.

He described LG’s partnership with CleanAce Academy as imperative because it would imbue participants in the masterclass with the necessary skills and tools required for a successful business.