By Adeleke Adelakun and Afolaranmi Damilare
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Osun State, today hosted Mrs. Ogene Fegor Akinkuole, a shoe entrepreneur and founder of Irhobome Couture, during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening collaboration with local manufacturers within the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector.
Mrs. Akinkuole expressed her excitement and appreciation for the warm reception and the opportunity to engage with the Council. She shared insights into her shoe-making business and discussed some of the challenges she encounters, particularly in sourcing materials within the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector. She expressed the organisation’s willingness to collaborate with the Council to improve her production capacity and business growth.
Earlier while welcoming the visitors, the Osun State Coordinator, Mr. Adeyemi Saheed, enlightened the organisation on the Council’s mandate, particularly its focus on promoting the sourcing and utilization of locally available raw materials across key industries, including the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector. He highlighted the challenges faced in the sector and emphasized RMRDC’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign machinery.
Mr. Adeyemi noted that the Council discourages the use of imported machines, stressing that most equipment supported by RMRDC is locally fabricated. He added that the Council seeks to partner with entrepreneurs to identify their specific needs, understand the challenges they face, and determine areas where support can be provided, especially in sourcing raw materials and accessing locally made machines within the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector.
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He further explained that RMRDC facilitates collaborations that enable entrepreneurs to benefit from locally fabricated equipment developed through raw material research initiatives.
Adeyemi also informed Mrs. Akinkuole about the Council’s upcoming Investors’ Forum, encouraging her to attend. According to him, the forum will provide a platform to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and expand her customer base, particularly within the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector.
The visit highlights RMRDC’s continued efforts to support local entrepreneurs and promote sustainable industrial development in Nigeria, especially within the textile, leather and wearing apparel sector
