2+ week, 3+ day ago (362+ words) The Federal Government says the continued consumption of hides and skins, popularly known as ponmo, poses a serious threat to Nigeria's leather industry, currently valued at about $5 billion. The Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Prof Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, stated this at the National Campaign Against the Consumption of ponmo held on Thursday in Abuja. Prof Ikemounso stressed that the practice deprives local industries of vital raw materials needed for leather production and export. According to him, the Nigerian leather goods market was valued at $2.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $4.96 billion by 2033, warning that the continued diversion of hides for consumption could derail this growth. "From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are one of Nigeria's most valuable raw materials. Our nation possesses a vibrant leather industry with enormous potential for job creation, foreign exchange…...