‘Education Reforms Will Close Knowledge Gap In Cosmetics Industry’

The Nigeria Society of Cosmetic Scientists (NICOS) is urging for urgent reforms in education and strategic investments to bridge the knowledge gap in Nigeria’s underperforming cosmetics industry. According to NICOS, these reforms are essential to unlocking the full potential of the sector, which, despite Nigeria’s large population and abundant natural resources, generates only $1.4 billion annually, a far cry from its true capacity.

Speaking at the 2024 Cosmetics Connect workshop and exhibition in Abuja, yesterday, NICOS president Grace Abamba, highlighted the need to build a skilled workforce and improve infrastructure to position the industry for global competitiveness.

Abamba noted that despite Nigeria’s vast population and rich natural resources, the cosmetics sector generates only $1.4 billion annually.

She argued that this figure falls far short of the industry’s potential, particularly given the rapid growth of the global cosmetics market, which is valued at $502 billion and expected to surpass $700 billion within two years.

“There is a need for targeted educational initiatives to close the knowledge gap that limits our industry,” Abamba said. She emphasised the importance of integrating cosmetic science into university and technical institution curricula to develop expertise in formulation science, product safety, regulatory compliance, and global standards.

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Ahamba, who also stressed that investing in education alone would not suffice, called for the establishment of state-of-the-art testing facilities, support for local raw material suppliers, and incentives to help manufacturers scale production. She explained that these measures are critical for improving the quality of Nigerian-made cosmetics and reducing reliance on imports.

NICOS vice president  Olusola Ojo, echoed these sentiments. Ojo said education and training are central to the industry’s transformation.

She pointed out that many small-scale manufacturers face challenges due to a lack of expertise in areas such as product safety, chemistry, and stability testing.

“By offering training and educational resources, we are equipping manufacturers with the tools they need to improve their products and navigate global trade,” she said.

Ojo further highlighted NICOS’ efforts to extend technical training opportunities to underserved regions, where such resources are often lacking.

She revealed that a three-year educational grant from the International Federation of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) was also available to its members across the country.

She therefore urged collaboration between policymakers, industry players, and educational institutions to drive the sector forward. “The global cosmetics market is booming, and Nigeria has the resources and talent to emerge as a leader,” she said. “But to achieve this, we must invest in our people, our infrastructure, and our industry.”