Aaior K. Comfort

Nigeria’s laundry industry holds immense potential for economic growth, according to Samuel Odenusi, Head of Commercial Laundry Business at LG Electronics in West Africa. Speaking during a masterclass for dry cleaners organized by CleanAce Foundation and Academy in collaboration with LG, Odenusi emphasized the sector’s ability to create jobs and wealth, particularly with the right infrastructure and government support.

As the Nigerian population continues to grow, so does the demand for laundry services. Odenusi urged the government to foster an enabling business environment, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to unlock further opportunities within the sector. “Supporting SMEs will help create wealth and jobs,” he stated, adding that LG’s collaboration with CleanAce is focused on providing participants with the skills and tools necessary to run successful businesses.

Enibikun Adebayo, Chairman of the Fabric Professionals and Dry Cleaners Association, highlighted the industry’s current valuation of $1.8 billion in 2024, predicting growth to $3 billion over the next decade. He called on the government to support the industry’s development, noting that it is one of the largest employers of labor in the country.

Adebayo also stressed the need for universities to offer vocational courses in laundry and dry cleaning to encourage self-employment. “This industry can generate significant employment,” he said, urging the government to take steps to attract younger people into the sector.

With partnerships like that of LG and CleanAce, the laundry industry is poised to drive investment, create job opportunities, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.