Nigeria’s laundry industry has a huge potential and it is crucial to economic growth because as urban population grows yearly, the value also rises, Head, Commercial Laundry Business at LG Electronics in West Africa, Samuel Odenusi has said.
He urged government to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, adding that proper support for MSMEs would create wealth and employment opportunities for all.
Odenusi spoke on the sidelines of a masterclass for dry cleaners organised by the CleanAce Foundation and Academy in partnership with LG Electronics.
“As urban populations expand, the value of the industry continues to rise.
“We also need the necessary infrastructure to support SMEs in Nigeria, which will create significant wealth and job opportunities,” he said.
Odenusi said LG’s partnership with CleanAce Academy is aimed at imbuing equip participants in the masterclass with the necessary skills and tools needed to run a successful business venture
“This is where LG plays a role. The value of the industry is enormous, and it grows every year due to the increasing demand for laundry services,” he added.
Chairman of the Fabric Professionals and Dry Cleaners Association, Enibikun Adebayo, urged government to provide support through adequate funding, adding that the laundry industry is expected to expand to about $3bn over the next 10 years.
“The laundry industry is valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand to about $3 billion 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 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,” he said.
Adebayo, who described the laundry industry as one of the largest employers in the country, urged universities to collaborate with the industry to offer vocational courses in laundry and dry cleaning, for more people to become self-employed.
“We need the government to create an environment that will encourage younger people to explore opportunities in this industry,” he added.
