UNTYING THE THREAD OF INNOVATION: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR NIGERIA’S TEXTILE ARTS

Abstract

Nigeria’s textile arts scene is a vibrant tapestry of creativity, rich cultural heritage, and untapped potential. Textile arts is one of the solutions to the development of any nation. Despite its significance, the production faces numerous challenges that hinder innovation and growth. This article explores the obstacles and opportunities for innovation in textile arts in Nigeria, examining the current state, challenges, and prospects for future development. The study adopts multiple methods of research design such as literature review, case studies, expert interviews and discussions, observational studies to gather enough data with content analysis, and qualitative methods to analyze the data. Some challenges include lack of modernization and technology, brain drain and skills gap, lack of adequate raw materials, etc. In contrast, the ideas for innovation include, the revitalization of Adire and batik training programs and workshops, digital printing and design, etc. This will eventually lead to innovation for the nation’s building helping the graduates to be self-employed and also employers of labour. Findings reveal that there are still opportunities for improvement in the sector if the right strategies are implemented. KEYWORDS: innovation, challenges, textile arts, prospects, textile industry.