The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has officially inaugurated the 3rd edition of the National Sewing Championship (NSC25), a nationwide competition for students and youth aged 12 to 22. The launch event was held at Government Science Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja, bringing together participants and key stakeholders from across the country.
In her keynote address, Professor Ahmad described the championship as a celebration of the immense creativity, talent, and craftsmanship of young Nigerians. She emphasized that beyond being a competition, the event serves as a platform for aspiring designers to develop careers in fashion, tailoring, and the broader textile industry.
“This championship represents the Nigerian spirit of innovation and artistry.
You are not just contestants; you are shaping the future of our fashion industry, contributing to cultural preservation, economic growth, and individual empowerment,” she stated.
Professor Ahmad further noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes youth development and economic empowerment.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Bunkure, her Special Assistant on Investment, Hajiya Maijidda Adamu, underscored the transformative role of fashion and design in fostering creativity, supporting local designers, and boosting economic opportunities.
The championship highlights the importance of Nigeria’s textile industry in preserving cultural heritage—through intricate beadwork, embroidery, and vibrant fabric designs—while encouraging innovation and global competitiveness.
The event concluded with a call for collaboration and investment in youth-led initiatives, recognizing fashion and textiles as powerful drivers of creativity and economic growth.