| Nigeria has the largest population in Africa, 126 million people in 2000. It accounts for 47 per cent of the region's population (World Bank 2002). Its history riddled with repressive military governments, fragmented society and a structurally adjusted economy has had unfavorable effects on the population, particularly the poor. Poverty rates have risen from 28 per cent in 1980 to an all time high of 66 per cent in 1996. The effects are apparent in rural sectors of the economy, which comprise local and traditional industry, most of whom are women.; The objective of this research is to identify an approach to poverty reduction developed along with existing local industries, in particular the local fabric industry in Nigeria. To determine the viability of the Nigerian fabric industry, I conducted interviews on the local fabric industry. I focus on the potential for wage increase, employment and development within the industry. This paper uses this analysis to answer questions on how a working mechanism for poverty reduction and economic development for the poor might look like. |
