The Federal Government has raised serious concerns about how the widespread consumption of ponmo, popularly known as cow skin, is posing a significant threat to the growth and development of Nigeria's leather industry.
National Campaign Against Ponmo Consumption
Professor Nnanyelugo Ike-mounso, the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), presented this argument during the official launch of the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo. The event took place on Thursday in Abuja, where industry stakeholders gathered to address the critical issue.
The Director-General revealed that Nigeria's leather industry is currently valued at $2.79 billion and has the potential to grow to an impressive $4.96 billion by 2033. However, this projected growth faces serious jeopardy due to the high consumption rate of ponmo across the country.
Economic Impact and Global Market Competition
Professor Ike-mounso explained that local leather manufacturers are being deprived of sufficient raw materials because cow hides and skins are being diverted to ponmo production instead of leather manufacturing. This shortage of raw materials is significantly affecting Nigeria's competitiveness in the global leather market, which is currently valued between $420 billion and $1 trillion.
The campaign, tagged "Wear, Not Eat Your Leather," aims to strengthen Nigeria's industrial sector and reduce the nation's dependence on imported raw materials. The DG clarified that the initiative is not intended to discourage people from consuming ponmo entirely, but rather to advocate for improved supply of hides and skins to productive local industries for the benefit of the national economy.
Health Concerns and Nutritional Value
Beyond the economic implications, the Director-General raised serious health concerns about ponmo consumption. He stated that ponmo has little or no nutritional value, containing only insignificant amounts of protein or micronutrients.
More alarmingly, he revealed that harmful substances such as formalin and diesel are often used in the processing and preservation of hides for ponmo. These dangerous preservation methods pose severe health risks to consumers and may result in organ damage or cancer over time.
The government official also recalled that in 2023, the federal government had warned Nigerians against eating ponmo due to its link with Anthrax disease, which had broken out in neighboring West African countries.
Professor Ike-mounso emphasized that the leather industry has not fully maximized its potential for job creation and high export earnings. He stressed the need for proper policy direction, availability of raw materials, and adequate infrastructure if Nigeria is to increase its share of the global leather market.
