NEPC Partners LeLook To Boost Bag Export, Empower Artisans
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to capitalize on the burgeoning global demand for traditionally handcrafted bags, targeting a market of over 1.3 billion users across African regions.
At the official signing ceremony in Abuja, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, lauded the partnership as a pivotal step towards achieving key national objectives such as job creation, youth empowerment, and economic security. She emphasized its alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
“Our partnership with Lelook Bags Academy marks the dawn of transformative initiatives for Nigeria,” Ayeni stated. “I was truly impressed by the creativity and exceptional product quality observed during my visit to their facility. These locally manufactured bags meet international standards, positioning Nigeria prominently in the global market.”
Mrs. Chinwe Ezenwa, Founder and CEO of Lelook Bags Academy, echoed Ayeni’s enthusiasm, highlighting the anticipated benefits for Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Ezenwa underscored their 13-year collaboration with NEPC and expressed her commitment to ongoing cooperation for mutual benefit.
She urged wealthy Nigerians with offshore funds to invest in Nigerian products instead of contributing to capital flight by investing abroad. Such investments, she argued, would enhance economic development and add value to the Naira.
The partnership aims to boost expertise, inclusivity, innovation, and competitiveness in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, with a focus on gender empowerment and support for vulnerable groups. Ezenwa pledged to enhance production capabilities and deliver high-quality bags that meet global standards, ensuring Nigeria’s competitiveness in international markets.
The NEPC and Lelook Bags Academy collaboration represents a unified effort to position Nigeria as a leading manufacturer of diverse, locally-made bags ready for global export.