Minister Idi Maiha Warns: Nigerians Are ‘Eating Their Jobs’ by Consuming Ponmo

The Minister of Livestock Development, Minister Idi Maiha, has raised concerns over the widespread consumption of ponmo (animal skin), warning that it is not only affecting Nigeria’s leather industry but also posing potential health risks. He emphasized that the unchecked consumption of ponmo is undermining the nation’s economy by depleting raw materials needed for leather production, a sector that could generate significant employment and revenue.

Minister Idi Maiha Blames Ponmo Consumption for Declining Leather Industry

Minister Idi Maiha stressed that Nigeria’s once-thriving leather industry is suffering due to the high demand for ponmo as food. He explained that animal hides, which should be processed into leather goods for local and international markets, are instead being consumed on a large scale, depriving the economy of an essential resource. According to Minister Idi Maiha, the Nigerian leather industry has the potential to rival oil revenue if properly harnessed, but ponmo consumption is sabotaging this prospect.

He further highlighted that countries like Italy and Spain import raw leather from Africa to sustain their billion-dollar fashion industries, while Nigeria struggles to develop its own due to a shortage of quality hides. Minister Idi Maiha called on policymakers to consider regulations that would prioritize industrial use over consumption to revive the leather sector.

Health Risks: Minister Raises Alarm Over Chemical-Treated Hides

Beyond the economic impact, Minister Idi Maiha warned that many ponmo products in Nigerian markets are chemically treated and unsafe for consumption. He revealed that some animal hides come from dead or diseased livestock and undergo preservation processes that involve toxic substances. These chemicals, he stated, pose long-term health risks, including cancer, kidney damage, and other chronic diseases.

Minister Idi Maiha urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to intensify monitoring of the ponmo supply chain. He also called on Nigerians to be more cautious about where they source their ponmo, as unregulated imports from neighboring countries could contain hazardous contaminants.

Leather Industry Could Create Millions of Jobs

Minister Idi Maiha pointed out that a well-developed leather sector could create millions of jobs across Nigeria. He explained that from animal farming to tanning, shoe manufacturing, and leather exports, the industry has the potential to empower thousands of small businesses and artisans. Nigeria’s leather products, particularly in cities like Kano and Aba, have been recognized internationally, but local production remains stifled due to raw material shortages.

He called for increased investment in leather processing plants and vocational training to equip Nigerians with the skills needed to compete globally. Minister Idi Maiha argued that prioritizing industrial leather use over ponmo consumption would significantly boost employment and economic diversification.

Resistance from Ponmo Consumers and Traders

However, Minister Idi Maiha’s stance has sparked controversy, particularly among ponmo traders and consumers who argue that it is an affordable source of protein. Market vendors have criticized the minister’s call for regulation, saying it would negatively impact their livelihoods. Many Nigerians see ponmo as a cultural delicacy, and any attempt to ban or restrict it is met with strong resistance.

Some nutritionists have also challenged the claim that ponmo is nutritionally insignificant. While it lacks protein density compared to meat, they argue that it still provides collagen and essential minerals. They have urged the government to explore a balanced approach rather than outright discouragement.

Government to Explore Policy Options on Ponmo Use

In response to the growing debate, the federal government is considering policy options to balance economic and health concerns regarding ponmo. Minister Idi Maiha suggested that a phased transition could be implemented, where certain high-quality hides are reserved for leather processing while lower-grade hides remain available for consumption.

The minister also hinted at potential incentives for leather industry stakeholders, including subsidies for tanneries and tax breaks for investors. While no formal policy has been enacted, the ongoing discussions suggest that ponmo consumption may soon come under stricter government oversight.