FG Launches Campaign Against Ponmo, Cites Threat to $5bn Leather Industry

The Federal Government has raised concerns that the continued consumption of ponmo—cow hides and skins—poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s leather industry, currently valued at about $5 billion.

Speaking at the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo on Thursday in Abuja, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), said the practice diverts critical raw materials away from local industries, undermining leather production and export potential.

Prof. Ikemounso revealed that the Nigerian leather goods market was valued at $2.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $4.96 billion by 2033, warning that continued consumption of hides could derail this growth. “Cow hides are among Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials. Our leather industry has enormous potential to create jobs, generate foreign exchange, and contribute to GDP,” he said.

He highlighted that the global leather value chain is estimated to be worth between $420 billion and $1 trillion, stressing that with proper policies, infrastructure, and access to raw materials, Nigeria could significantly increase its market share.

Prof. Ikemounso emphasised that the campaign is not intended to challenge cultural or dietary choices but to prioritise industrial use of hides and skins for the national good. “This initiative is about channeling hides into productive industrial applications, particularly leather production, which can drive economic growth, job creation, and export diversification,” he said.

The DG also raised health concerns associated with ponmo, noting that it is largely composed of collagen with minimal nutritional value. He warned that hides processed for consumption are often treated with harmful chemicals such as formalin, diesel, and other non-food-grade substances, which can cause organ damage and increase cancer risk.

“From a nutritional perspective, ponmo provides very little benefit. More importantly, the processing methods involve substances that are hazardous to health,” he explained.

The RMRDC launched the campaign under the slogan “Wear, Not Eat Your Leather”, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base and reduce dependence on imported raw materials.

Nigeria’s leather industry is regarded as one of the country’s most promising non-oil sectors, with significant potential to generate employment and foreign exchange. However, government officials have repeatedly expressed concern that the popularity of ponmo among consumers has hindered the country’s ability to fully exploit these economic opportunities.