Abstract
This study investigated the production of local woven textiles as a means of alleviating poverty in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State. A survey research design was used for the study. The population for this study comprised of 550 local weavers and dyers. Five research questions guided the study. A sample size of 352 was used through purposive sampling. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation. The findings showed that narrow loom was majorly use for the production of local fabrics, the white and black colour of Tiv traditional woven textile, fabrics were produced in large quantities representing 45% compared to Idoma and Igede tribes in the state. Majority of local weaver said they have difficulty in getting initial capital to start production was the main problem. Most of the local weavers adopted a strategy of constant supply of woven fabrics in the market in order to alleviate poverty. In conclusion the Tivs have high regard for locally woven fabric which forms the bed rock for their cultural celebrations. More than half of the local weavers earn between N50,000 to N55,000 Per annum representing 86% of the local weavers. Recommendations are that narrow loom should be used to teach the youths skills in weaving to reduce their poverty level among others.
Keywords: Local Woven, textile, poverty alleviation.
Publication Date: 2023-09-09