FG Warns That Widespread Ponmo Consumption Jeopardizes Nigeria’s $5 Billion Leather Industry Potential

The Federal Government today, Thursday, November 13, 2025, issued a strong warning that the continuous consumption of hides and skins, popularly known as ponmo, is threatening the realization of Nigeria’s multi-billion-dollar potential in the global leather industry.

The warning was delivered by the Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, during the launch of the “National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo” in Abuja.

Prof. Ikemounso explained that the cowhide, which is consumed as a delicacy, is economically one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials. He disclosed that the Nigerian leather goods market was valued at $2.79 billion in 2024 and is forecast to grow to a staggering $4.96 billion by 2033 if raw materials are channeled into industrial processing.

Hides are Industrial Assets, Not Food

The Director-General lamented that the continued widespread diversion of hides for ponmo consumption directly denies local tanneries and manufacturers access to crucial raw materials, thereby hindering the sector’s ability to create jobs, earn foreign exchange, and significantly contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials,” Ikemounso said. “Sadly, the continuous diversion of hides for ponmo consumption weakens our tanning and leather manufacturing sector, and diminishes Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global leather market.”

Furthermore, the DG raised alarm over the health implications of consuming the delicacy. He pointed out that ponmo offers minimal nutritional value but, more dangerously, many hides are processed using toxic industrial chemicals such as formalin and diesel. These chemicals, meant for preservation and industrial use, pose serious health hazards to consumers, including an increased risk of organ damage and cancer.

The RMRDC launched the campaign with the slogan “Wear, Not Eat Your Leather,” emphasizing that the goal is not to police traditional food choices but to strategically prioritize industrial use for massive national economic benefit.