The Federal Government has warned that the widespread consumption of hides and skins, locally known as ponmo, is threatening the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s multi-billion-dollar leather industry.

This warning was issued by the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, during the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo, held on Thursday in Abuja.

Ikemounso explained that Nigeria’s leather and leather goods market, valued at $2.79 billion in 2024, could reach $4.96 billion by 2033 if properly developed.

However, he warned that the continued use of cowhides for food instead of industrial processing could undermine this projected growth.

“From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials. Our nation possesses a vibrant leather industry with enormous potential for job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and contributions to GDP,” he said.

“As of 2024, the Nigerian Leather Goods Market was valued at USD 2.79 billion, with a forecast to grow to USD 4.96 billion by 2033.

“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.”

The RMRDC boss clarified that the government’s position was not to criminalise ponmo consumption but to encourage the use of hides and skins for industrial purposes, especially leather production, which he described as vital to economic diversification and export expansion.

Beyond the economic losses, Ikemounso also cautioned that ponmo offers minimal nutritional value and could expose consumers to serious health risks.

He noted that many of the hides sold for consumption are treated with toxic substances such as formalin, diesel, and other non-food-grade chemicals, which can cause long-term health complications.

He described the delicacy as having “little or no nutritional benefit,” explaining that it consists mainly of collagen with very limited protein or micronutrient content.

“From a nutritional perspective, ponmo offers very little value. More worrisome, in many cases, hides used for ponmo are subjected to preservation and processing methods involving harmful substances such as formalin and diesel,” he warned.

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

The RMRDC Director-General urged Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to prioritise industrial use of hides, noting that doing so would not only safeguard public health but also strengthen the nation’s position in the global leather market. (TRIBUNE)