Starting a shoe-making business in Nigeria is a feasible and affordable way to earn income and achieve a desired lifestyle. Nigerians have a strong interest in fashion and are willing to invest in footwear to enhance their appearance. Local shoe makers, also known as cobblers, produce a wide range of shoes including men’s and women’s corporate footwear, sandals, and slippers, utilizing various types of leathers and soles that are available in their vicinity.

Nigeria has a rich history of footwear manufacturing, with traditional artisanal shoemaking skills being passed down through generations, particularly in well-established centers such as Kano. While demand for locally made leather sandals and slippers has always existed, there is now a growing market for contemporary and fashionable footwear driven by the country’s sizable youth population. However, the majority of modern shoe retail in Nigeria is still dominated by imports. Only 15% of footwear market consists of locally made shoes. Nevertheless, the potential for growth is immense, with annual demand for footwear estimated at 280 million pairs and continuously increasing.

There are several key advantages to establishing local shoe manufacturing in Nigeria:

• Import substitution: It reduces the country’s reliance on imported shoes, which currently make up 85% of the formal footwear market as of 2019.
• Job Creation: Shoe-making industry provides employment opportunities and skill development for many artisanal workers, contributing to job creation. 
• Supports the Local Leather Industry: it supports the local leather industry, stimulating the growth of the overall leather goods ecosystem.
• Customization: Local shoe production also offers the flexibility to design shoes that cater to the specific needs and preferences of Nigerian consumers.
• Affordability: locally made shoes are often priced lower than foreign designer brands, making them accessible to a broader market.

How lucrative is the “shoe-making” business in Nigeria?

Shoe-making like every other business can be sustaining if the business is well packaged with good business orientation. In 2018 an average shoe maker can make up to N50,000 or more in a month. Let’s take a Birkenstock for example, it costs an average of N5,000 to make a fine and unique sandal with it and it can be sold for as much as N15,000 or more depending on the type of customer that you’re able to attract.

Corporate shoes are different levels entirely, they cost as much as N20,000 to N30,000 on the street market with the right market and trustworthy brand Another thing to consider is quality the quality of the shoe determines the price charged. A well-crafted corporate can cost as much as N40,000 but if it’s of poor leather quality, it will be priced lower.

Furthermore, effective marketing strategies, including online platforms, social media, and collaborations with influencers or retail outlets, can help reach a wider audience and increase sales. Online markets such as Jumia, Jiji, Konga, and the like can be used to market online to increase the audience which could bring in more customers and increase the sales and revenue of the shoemaker.

Starting a Shoe-making Business in Nigeria

• Research market: research to understand the taste of the customers, pricing system, and target consumers.
• Skills and Knowledge: like every other business it is important to acquire the skill on how to make quality shoes but if you want to produce on a large scale you can just hire skilled labour
• Business Plan: draw a business plan and make sure you set goals that are achievable in the short run and the business grows over time.
• Location and Equipment: Find a suitable location for your shoe-making business. It should be easily accessible, have enough space for production and display, and meet any specific requirements for machinery and equipment. Invest in good-quality shoemaking tools and machinery.
• Branding and Marketing: Create a distinctive brand identity for your shoe-making business. Design a logo, develop a website, and use social media platforms to showcase your products. Implement effective marketing strategies such as advertising, collaborations, and direct selling.

Remember, starting a business requires perseverance, dedication, and hard work. Be prepared to face challenges, adapt to market demands, and constantly innovate to succeed in the shoe-making industry in Nigeria.