Kpomo

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Federal Government has raised an alarm that the widespread consumption of animal hides and skins, popularly known as ponmo, is endangering Nigeria’s leather industry, valued at approximately $5 billion.

Speaking at the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo in Abuja on Thursday, Professor Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), stated that the practice strips local industries of the vital raw materials required for leather production and export.

Ikemounso revealed that the Nigerian leather goods market, valued at $2.79 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to $4.96 billion by 2033.

He warned that this projected growth is at risk if the diversion of hides for food continues.“From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials,” Ikemounso said.

“Sadly, the continuous diversion of hides for ponmo consumption denies our industries access to quality raw materials, weakens our tanning and leather manufacturing sector, and diminishes Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global leather market.”

He emphasized that the campaign, tagged “Wear, Not Eat Your Leather,” is a strategic move to channel hides and skins into industrial use for national economic benefit, not an attack on cultural or dietary preferences.

Beyond the economic argument, the DG raised significant health concerns, describing ponmo as a food item with little to no nutritional value. He cautioned that many hides processed for consumption are treated with toxic substances like formalin and diesel.

“These pose serious health risks ranging from organ damage to increased risk of cancer,” Ikemounso warned.

The leather industry is considered one of Nigeria’s most promising non-oil sectors, with the potential to be a major source of export revenue and job creation, but the government fears the popularity of ponmo is stifling its full potential.