This research examines Nigeria’s textile and fashion waste crisis through a comparative study of Kaduna and Edo States, highlighting policy gaps and opportunities for circular economy integration.
Abstract
Textile and fashion waste is an escalating crisis in Nigeria, driven by fast fashion imports, weak recycling infrastructure, and low consumer awareness. This paper examines Kaduna’s textile waste management practices and extracts lessons to inform Edo State’s pathway toward a circular fashion economy. By combining case analysis with policy mapping, the study highlights practical interventions that can foster sustainable production, reduce environmental harm, and align with Nigeria’s SDG commitments.
Background
Nigeria’s textile sector is historically significant, yet in recent decades it has shifted from domestic production to reliance on imported used clothing. This has generated mounting post-consumer textile waste, overwhelming waste streams in cities. The study focuses on Kaduna, where government and community-led initiatives provide insight into scalable practices for other states such as Edo.
Objectives
- Assess Kaduna’s textile waste management framework.
- Identify opportunities for Edo State to pilot circular fashion initiatives.
- Provide policy recommendations to strengthen Nigeria’s alignment with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
Methods
The research applied a mixed-method approach, including literature review, policy analysis, and case study comparison. It mapped textile waste flows, stakeholder roles, and existing gaps in regulatory frameworks.
Key Findings
- Volume of waste: Kaduna markets generate significant textile waste, much of which ends in landfills due to limited reuse or recycling channels.
- Community innovation: Informal repair and resale practices extend the life of garments, indicating strong potential for scaling.
- Policy gaps: Absence of dedicated textile waste policy or Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks hampers sustainable management.
- Youth and gender roles: Women and youth dominate repair and resale economies, yet their efforts are under-recognized in formal strategies.
Policy Opportunities for Edo State
- Pilot Textile Sorting & Repair Hubs in markets and waste transfer points.
- Green public procurement for uniforms and official textiles.
- Lightweight EPR framework to engage producers and importers in shared responsibility.
- Behavior change campaigns targeted at youth and communities to promote repair and reuse.
- Data and monitoring systems to track textile flows and measure progress.
Conclusion
Kaduna’s case demonstrates that informal practices can seed a circular fashion system if backed by supportive policy, investment, and data systems. Edo State has an opportunity to lead Nigeria by piloting scalable, community-centered initiatives that link waste management with circular economy strategies. Doing so would reduce environmental burdens, stimulate green jobs, and strengthen alignment with the 2030 Agenda.
