Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 8
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 9
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
1.10 Definition of Terms. 11
CHAPTER TWO.. 15
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 15
2.1 Introduction.. 15
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 15
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 20
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
Chapter Three.. 23
Research Methodology.. 23
3.1 Introduction.. 23
3.2 Research Design.. 23
3.3 Population and Sampling Techniques. 24
3.4 Data Collection Methods. 24
3.5 Data Analysis Procedures. 25
3.6 Ethical Considerations. 26
3.7 Limitations of the Methodology.. 26
3.8 Summary.. 27
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 28
4.1 Preamble.. 28
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 28
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 32
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 32
Discussion of Findings. 51
CHAPTER FIVE.. 55
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 55
5.1 Summary of Findings. 55
5.2 Conclusion.. 56
5.3 Recommendations. 57
REFERENCES.. 58
Research Questionnaire.. 61
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In recent years, the global fashion industry has increasingly turned its attention towards sustainability, spurred by environmental concerns and consumer demand for ethically produced goods. Nigeria, as a burgeoning hub of creativity and industry in Africa, presents a unique case for examining the development of sustainable fashion production practices. This analysis explores the evolution of sustainability within Nigeria's fashion sector, considering both challenges and innovative solutions. By examining the historical context, current initiatives, and future prospects, this study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how Nigerian fashion enterprises are navigating the shift towards sustainable practices.
Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and diverse textile traditions offer a fertile ground for integrating sustainable practices into fashion production. Traditional crafts, such as hand weaving and natural dyeing techniques, not only showcase the country's cultural identity but also align with sustainable principles of resource efficiency and minimal environmental impact (Oladele, 2023). However, the transition to sustainable fashion faces significant challenges, including limited access to eco-friendly materials, inadequate infrastructure for waste management, and consumer preferences for fast fashion (Amos, 2022).
Moreover, governmental policies and industry collaborations play crucial roles in shaping the trajectory of sustainable fashion in Nigeria. Legislative frameworks that promote eco-friendly manufacturing practices, coupled with partnerships between local designers, international organizations, and academia, are pivotal in fostering a sustainable fashion ecosystem (Ukandi, 2023). The emergence of sustainable fashion hubs and initiatives, such as eco-fashion weeks and certification programs for ethical production, illustrates a growing commitment within Nigeria's fashion industry to embrace sustainability (Ezeani, 2024).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The development of sustainable fashion production practices in Nigeria presents a complex and multifaceted challenge within the global fashion landscape. Despite Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and burgeoning fashion industry, the transition towards sustainability faces significant hurdles. These include limited access to eco-friendly materials and technologies, inadequate infrastructure for waste management, and a prevailing preference among consumers for fast fashion products (Amos, 2022). Moreover, the lack of comprehensive governmental policies and regulatory frameworks tailored to support sustainable practices further impedes progress in this area (Ukandi, 2023). These factors collectively contribute to environmental degradation and undermine efforts to promote ethical and environmentally responsible fashion production in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the proliferation of fast fashion in Nigeria exacerbates issues related to sustainability. The rapid turnover of trends and the prevalence of inexpensive, low-quality garments contribute to a culture of disposability, where garments are discarded after only a few uses, exacerbating waste accumulation (Ojo, 2022). This consumption pattern not only strains environmental resources but also perpetuates poor working conditions within the fashion supply chain, particularly for artisans and garment workers in Nigeria's informal sector (Oladele, 2023). Addressing these systemic challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates sustainable principles into every stage of the fashion production cycle, from design and sourcing to manufacturing and consumer behavior.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Analysis of The development of sustainable fashion production practices in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To evaluate the existing sustainable fashion production practices in Nigeria.
- To identify the factors influencing the development of sustainable fashion production in Nigeria.
- To analyze the potential and challenges associated with scaling up sustainable fashion production in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What types of sustainable materials are being used by Nigerian fashion brands, and to what extent?
- How do factors like consumer awareness, government policies, and access to infrastructure influence the adoption of sustainable production practices by Nigerian fashion businesses?
- What are the key opportunities and challenges for expanding the scale of sustainable fashion production in Nigeria, considering factors like production costs consumer demand and skilled labor availability?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between the development of sustainable fashion production practices and the fashion industry in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Fine and Applied Arts sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Society of Nigerian Artists, Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion refers to the design, production, and consumption of clothing and accessories in ways that minimize environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and support fair labor practices throughout the supply chain.
2. Production Practices
Production practices in the context of sustainable fashion encompass the methods and processes used in the manufacturing and assembly of garments, including sourcing of materials, manufacturing techniques, and waste management.
3. Ethical Fashion
Ethical fashion pertains to the principles and practices that prioritize social responsibility, fair labor conditions, and ethical sourcing of materials within the fashion industry.
4. Circular Economy
The circular economy refers to an economic system aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing the use of resources by keeping products, components, and materials in use for as long as possible through recycling, reuse, and repair.
5. Textile Waste
Textile waste refers to discarded or surplus textiles and garments that are no longer usable or wanted, often resulting from consumer behavior, manufacturing defects, or end-of-life disposal.
6. Environmental Sustainability
Environmental sustainability relates to practices and initiatives that aim to reduce the environmental impact of fashion production and consumption, including minimizing carbon emissions, conserving water, and reducing pollution.
7. Supply Chain
The supply chain in fashion refers to the network of organizations, individuals, resources, activities, and technology involved in the creation and distribution of garments, from raw materials to the final product reaching consumers.
