What in the World - Are we about to see more ‘Made in Nigeria’ leather goods?

Download Are we about to see more ‘Made in Nigeria’ leather goods?

If you’ve checked out the label of your favourite leather accessories lately, you might see Made in China or Italy… but perhaps not Nigeria.

The country exports nearly 90% of its hides, as part of a historic leather industry that feeds luxury labels around the world. But because the products are finished off abroad, you wouldn't know their origins. Now, Nigerian designers are working to change this and reclaim ownership.

BBC reporter Elaine Chong explains how Nigerian tanneries make their leather - and why it’s so in demand. We hear from Nigerians working in the leather industry, who tell us how it’s changing. And Adedoyin Adeniji, a fashion writer who has worked with several Nigerian brands, tells us what challenges leather designers there are facing — and how they are working to overcome them.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
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Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Wednesday, 15th October 2025.

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