CLOTHING AND TEXTILE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS A TOOL FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Youth unemployment and economic vulnerability remain persistent challenges in many developing economies, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria and similar contexts, the clothing and textile sector presents significant but underutilized opportunities for youth empowerment, job creation, and economic resilience. This paper adopts a conceptual and policy-oriented approach to examine clothing and textile entrepreneurship as a strategic tool for empowering young people and strengthening economic resilience. Drawing on relevant literature, development theories, and policy documents, the study explores the nexus between youth entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, value-chain participation, and sustainable economic development. The paper argues that clothing and textile entrepreneurship, when supported by appropriate policies, training frameworks, and innovation-driven practices, can serve as a viable pathway for reducing youth unemployment, enhancing self-reliance, and promoting inclusive economic growth. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at governments, educational institutions, and development agencies on how to reposition clothing and textile entrepreneurship for sustainable youth empowerment and long-term economic resilience.