Key issues facing Nigeria's furniture manufacturers

Nigeria's furniture manufacturing industry is facing a myriad of challenges that are impacting the ability of local manufacturers to thrive in the market. Nifemi Marcus-Bello, the co-founder of Koka Goods, shed light on the issues affecting the industry during a recent interview with CNBC Africa. One of the key themes that emerged from the conversation was the importance of increasing local patronage of Nigerian goods to promote self-sufficiency and value addition in manufacturing. Marcus-Bello highlighted the struggles faced by furniture manufacturers in Nigeria, particularly in sourcing quality raw materials and dealing with an unfavorable economic climate. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for growth and improvement in the industry. Here are three key points from the interview: 1. Sourcing Raw Materials: One of the primary challenges for furniture manufacturers in Nigeria is the sourcing of quality raw materials. Marcus-Bello emphasized that locally sourced materials often do not meet the required quality standards, forcing manufacturers to rely on reclaimed wood from Western countries. This not only drives up costs but also hampers the ability of local manufacturers to compete with imported products. Lack of proper treatment of wood in Nigeria further exacerbates the issue, leading to a subpar product that may not withstand the local climate. 2. Pricing Pressures: The fluctuation in the value of the Naira has had a significant impact on the pricing of locally manufactured furniture. Despite the common belief that producing locally should lead to cheaper products, Marcus-Bello highlighted that the cost of raw materials and manufacturing processes often result in higher prices for local goods. The inflationary environment in Nigeria further compounds the pricing pressures faced by manufacturers, making it challenging to offer competitively priced products in the market. 3. Education and Training: Marcus-Bello stressed the importance of education and training in improving the quality of raw materials and manufacturing processes in Nigeria. He called for closer collaboration between manufacturers and designers to create an ecosystem that prioritizes quality and innovation. By investing in education and training initiatives, the industry can bridge the gap in skill sets and knowledge needed to produce high-quality furniture that meets international standards. In conclusion, while the furniture manufacturing industry in Nigeria faces several hurdles, there is optimism for growth and development. By addressing the challenges of sourcing raw materials, pricing pressures, and education and training, local manufacturers can enhance their competitiveness and drive the industry forward. The key to success lies in fostering a collaborative ecosystem that supports innovation, quality, and sustainability in the sector.