Nigerian fashion industry will hit market volume of US $1.92billion by 2027 —Temitope Adepoju

Temitope Elizabeth Adepoju, a fashion expert and of Liztim Fashionis, believes that the fashion industry is as important as any other in improving the economy of Nigeria. In this interview with YEJIDE GBENGA-OGUNDARE, she talked about why government should help the fashion industry, the importance of the industry to Nigeria’s economy among and other issues.

Will you say the fashion industry is lucrative?

I will say yes. And this is also backed by fact; Statista Market Forecast said that the fashion market in Nigeria is projected to grow by 10.03 percent between 2023 and 2027 resulting in a market volume of $1.92billion in 2027.  This is a huge opportunity for many people in the fashion industry if they are willing and positioned to tap into it. Yes, the industry is very lucrative.

How will this affect you as someone in the fashion world?

Well, like other big concerns, Liztim Fashion is poised to take the advantage. And like any other fashion outfit that is focused, we will be part of this boom.

What do you think is needed to push the fashion industry forward?

Many things can be done; we can start with provision of infrastructure which is very crucial in order to attract active foreign participation and the ease of doing business. For greater gain, it is required that the money-bags and other serious financial players should invest in the industry through adequate provision of funds. If this is done, it would be possible to deploy modern technology for higher quality and increase in production.

What will you say is the role government must play to give a boost to the industry?

I earlier talked about the need to improve on the existing infrastructure as well as the need for adequate funding. These are very important in determining the progress that is projected to happen in the sector. Government has a vital role to play in pushing the fashion industry in Nigeria to an enviable level.

Will you say Liztim Fashion contributed to the Nigerian fashion industry?

Liztim Fashion, which was established in 2011, is a fashion designing brand that specialises in creating high quality and trendy clothes for both men and women. Our range of expertise cuts across bridal wears and custom made dresses among others. We project modern cuts which are uniquely home-made and this has impacted the growth of the fashion industry, daily we contribute our quota to the development of the fashion industry.

How did you get into the fashion world?

I got into the industry just like any other person; I got engaged in fashion design training. I became fascinated with fashion at a point in my life, so, I decided to go into it and what other way than to get trained. Although it was quite challenging, I never regret my action as I am better for it today. Sustainability is important when you go into a particular practice. I am determined to keep improving my skill in order to remain relevant and creative.

How do you update your knowledge and skills in the sector?

I am fascinated by what unfolds in the fashion industry, so I spend a lot of time reviewing things. I stay current and abreast of trends in the industry. This helps me to understand what the marketplace is looking for and how my designs can fit in.

Some people specialise in baby dresses; others stick to bridal couture, some focus mainly on corporate wears; which one is your specialty?

I am what you can call an all- rounder. At Liztim Fashion, we handle all sorts of fabrics and we treat them in a way that soothes the taste of our wide range of customers. We are committed to the yearnings of our clients because their satisfaction is a testimony of our expertise. We can feel fulfilled only if we meet their standards.

How supportive were your parents and husband when you first indicated interest in the trade?

They were very supportive to the point I can say my mum was my first apprentice. She assisted and supported me a lot through the early years of Liztim Fashion. Today, I can say that the end justifies the means because the seed that was sown some years ago has started to bring fruits.

What are the challenges you encountered in the course of your career?

Number one challenge is funding. In other parts of the world, financial institutions and other stakeholders do support businesses as a way to nurture them to full strength. Here in Nigeria, there is a dearth of support. Distrust is another major factor that sets one back in the journey. Some customers have this difficult tendency; if you are new to them, they would openly express doubt in your ability to deliver to their taste and specification.

How would you rate fashion industry in Ibadan and Nigeria?

We are doing well but there are lots of grounds to cover to fully mark our global presence in terms of product quality and adaptability to market trends etc. Our online presence should be more definite.

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