FG Warns Ponmo Consumption Endangers Nigeria’s $5bn Leather Industry
The Federal Government has raised concerns that the rising consumption of hides and skin—popularly known as ponmo—is threatening the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s leather industry, valued at an estimated $5 billion.
Speaking at the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Abuja, the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, said the practice continues to deprive the local leather sector of crucial raw materials needed for production and export.
Ikemounso noted that the Nigerian leather goods market was worth $2.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $4.96 billion by 2033. He warned that diverting hides for consumption could hinder this projected growth and weaken the country’s competitiveness in the global leather value chain.
“From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are among Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials,” he said. “Unfortunately, the continuous diversion of hides for ponmo consumption denies our industries access to quality materials, undermines the tanning and leather manufacturing sector, and reduces Nigeria’s participation in the global leather market.”
The DG added that the global leather industry is valued between $420 billion and $1 trillion, stressing that with the right policies, infrastructure, and raw material management, Nigeria can significantly expand its share.
He clarified that the campaign is not an attack on cultural or personal dietary choices but a strategic move to encourage the industrial use of hides and skins for national economic benefit.
“This campaign is not against tradition or food preference,” he explained. “It is a strategic effort to promote the industrial use of hides and skins, especially for leather production, which has enormous economic potential.”
Ikemounso also highlighted health and nutritional concerns, stating that ponmo offers minimal nutritional value as it consists mainly of collagen with little protein or micronutrients. He added that many hides sold as ponmo are processed using harmful substances such as formalin and diesel, posing severe health risks, including organ damage and cancer.
“From a nutritional perspective, ponmo offers very little value,” he said. “Even more worrisome are the unsafe processing methods involving chemicals such as formalin and diesel, which expose consumers to serious health hazards.”
He urged Nigerians to support the campaign to ensure that hides and skins are directed toward productive industrial use capable of boosting job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and overall economic growth.
