DRAFT WORKING DOCUMENT FOR THE UNIFICATION AND FUNCTIONAL STRUCTURE OF NALPAN
OSEMWENGIE VICTOR ODION NALPAN NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT
The National Leather and Leather Products Association of Nigeria (NALPAN) serves as the umbrella body for all stakeholders in the leather value chain, spanning producers, suppliers, marketers, and artisans across Nigeria. To strengthen its structure and enhance operational efficiency, this document proposes a unified organizational framework, funding-sharing methods, and clearly defined responsibilities for executives at all levels.
National Executive Council (NEC): Responsible for overall leadership, strategic planning, national representation, and policy formulation.
Key Executives and Responsibilities:
National President: Oversees the entire association, represents NALPAN in national and international engagements, and ensures alignment with the vision and mission.
Vice Presidents (Regional): Coordinate activities within their respective regions and liaise between the national and regional levels.
National Secretary: Maintains records, schedules meetings, and ensures effective communication across all levels.
Treasurer: Manages national-level funds, prepares financial reports, and ensures accountability.
Public Relations Officer: Promotes NALPAN’s activities and strengthens its public image.
National Auditor: Conducts periodic audits to ensure financial transparency and compliance.
Sector Representatives: Represent sub-sectors such as footwear, tannery, leather goods, and raw material suppliers.
Regional Committees: Oversee operations across geopolitical zones, ensuring synergy among states.
- Monitor the implementation of national policies within the region.
- Address cross-state issues and mediate disputes.
- Submit periodic progress reports to the NEC.
3. State Level
State Executive Council (SEC): Implements policies and oversees activities within the state.
State Chairperson: Leads state activities, represents the state in regional meetings, and coordinates local government councils.
Secretary: Manages state-level communication and record-keeping.
Treasurer: Handles state finances and fundraising efforts. etc
Local Government Committees: Mobilize artisans, producers, and stakeholders at the grassroots level.
- Conduct local training programs and workshops.
- Identify and resolve challenges faced by members.
- Provide feedback to the state executive council.
5. Ward Level
- Ward Coordinators: Act as grassroots mobilizers and engage individual members.
- Facilitate membership registration and data collection.
- Promote skill acquisition and training at the ward level.
- Report ward-level activities to the local government committees.
Funding Sharing Methods
- Fixed annual dues collected across all levels (ward, LGA, state, regional, and national).
- Ward: 10%
- Local Government: 20%
- State: 30%
- Regional: 15%
- National: 25%
2. Project-Based Revenue Sharing:
- Funds generated from special projects or sponsorships will be distributed based on contribution and impact.
3. Profit-Sharing from National Initiatives:
- Funds from collective projects such as exhibitions, marketing platforms, and international collaborations will be divided as follows:
Responsibilities of Executives in Other Sectors
- Ensure compliance with international standards for leather production.
- Provide training and certifications to members on sustainable tanning practices.
- Lead product innovation and design workshops.
- Promote the “Made in Nigeria” brand for leather products.
- Facilitate the distribution of quality raw materials.
- Collaborate with research institutions for improved materials.
4. Leather Goods Manufacturers:
- Organize skill-enhancement programs.
- Develop partnerships with fashion and accessory designers.
- Promote Nigerian leather products locally and internationally.
- Establish a centralized online marketplace for all members.
Conclusion
This document provides a comprehensive framework to unite NALPAN members across all levels, ensuring equal representation, accountability, and shared responsibilities. The funding-sharing methods and executive roles will strengthen the association, foster growth in the leather industry, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness in leather production and marketing.
1. Capacity Building and Training
- Objective: To empower members with the skills and knowledge needed to compete globally.
- Implementation:
- Organize nationwide training workshops on leather production, sustainability, marketing, and innovation.
- Partner with institutions like the Nigeria Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) for curriculum development and certifications.
- Provide online training resources through a dedicated NALPAN digital platform.
2. Establishment of Leather Cluster Markets
-Objective: To create centralized hubs for production, training, and marketing in all geopolitical zones.
- Implementation:
- Secure government and private sector funding for the establishment of these clusters.
- Allocate specific spaces for tanning, footwear production, and accessory manufacturing.
- Use these clusters for trade fairs and exhibitions to promote local products.
3. Unified Branding and Marketing
- Objective: To create a strong identity for Nigerian leather products.
- Implementation:
- Develop a “NALPAN Seal of Quality” to certify products that meet global standards.
- Launch a marketing campaign promoting the “Made in Nigeria” leather brand globally.
- Establish a digital marketplace where all members can showcase and sell their products.
4. Advocacy and Policy Engagement
- Objective: To secure government support for the leather industry.
- Implementation:
- Engage policymakers to reduce tariffs on raw materials and production equipment.
- Advocate for the inclusion of leather products in export promotion programs.
- Work with state governments to establish leather production hubs.
- Objective: To innovate and improve leather production techniques.
- Implementation:
- Collaborate with research institutions for new tanning methods and eco-friendly practices.
- Set up a research fund, with contributions from members and external sponsors.
- Disseminate findings through national and regional conferences.
1. Conflict Identification and Reporting:
- Establish a grievance reporting system at all levels.
- Create an online portal for members to submit complaints anonymously.
- Form committees at the state, regional, and national levels to address disputes.
- Include neutral representatives from other sectors to ensure fairness.
- Employ mediation techniques to resolve disputes amicably.
- If unresolved, escalate cases to the national arbitration panel.
Monitoring and Evaluation
To ensure the effectiveness of NALPAN’s activities, the following measures will be put in place:
- Membership growth at all levels.
- Increase in revenue generated from membership dues and projects.
- Volume of leather products exported annually.
- State, regional, and national executives will prepare detailed reports on activities and achievements.
- Reports will be reviewed at an annual general meeting.
- Regular surveys to gauge member satisfaction.
- Open forums at the ward and local government levels for members to provide suggestions.
Phase 1 executive
Membership mobilization and data collection
Months 1–3
Ward and LGA Executives
Phase 2
Training workshops and cluster establishment
Months 4–9
Regional and State Executives
Launch of the digital marketplace
Months 10–12
National and Sector
Annual general meeting and performance review
Month 12
National
Conclusion
This working document aims to unify NALPAN’s members, strengthen its organizational structure, and boost Nigeria’s leather industry. By fostering collaboration and ensuring equitable resource distribution, NALPAN can solidify its position as a driving force for economic growth and global competitiveness in the leather value chain.
Member Benefits and Growth Opportunities
This document is designed to offer significant benefits to NALPAN members, improving their welfare and creating opportunities for personal and business growth. Below are the key benefits and how they will be achieved:
1. Enhanced Welfare and Support
Access to Funding
- Implementation:
- Members will have access to interest-free or low-interest loans through partnerships with financial institutions.
- A transparent funding-sharing formula ensures every level (ward to national) benefits equitably.
- Benefit:
- Reduces financial barriers for members, enabling business expansion and operational growth.
Skill Development Programs
- Implementation:
- Regular workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs tailored to each sector of the leather value chain.
- Collaboration with NILEST and other technical institutions for certification courses.
- Benefit:
- Improves members' technical skills and business acumen, helping them produce globally competitive products.
Health and Insurance Plans
- Implementation:
- Partner with health insurance providers to offer affordable healthcare plans.
- Introduce group life and business insurance schemes for members.
- Benefit:
- Provides a safety net for members and their families, ensuring long-term well-being.
2. Business Growth and Expansion
Market Access
- Implementation:
- Establish a unified online marketplace where members can showcase their products.
- Organize national and regional trade fairs to connect members with buyers and investors.
- Benefit:
- Increases visibility and sales opportunities for members, both locally and internationally.
Networking Opportunities
- Implementation:
- Host regular meetings, conferences, and summits where members can exchange ideas and build partnerships.
- Create sub-sector committees to foster collaboration within specific areas (e.g., footwear, tannery).
- Benefit:
- Helps members build valuable connections, access resources, and collaborate on projects.
Export Support
- Implementation:
- Develop an export facilitation team to assist members in meeting international standards and accessing global markets.
- Offer grants and subsidies for export-ready businesses.
- Benefit:
- Expands the reach of members' products, increasing revenue and enhancing brand reputation.
3. Fair Representation and Advocacy
Strong Voice for Members
- Implementation:
- Engage policymakers to create favorable policies for the leather industry, such as reduced tariffs and tax incentives.
- Ensure all members, regardless of their location or scale of business, have a voice through ward and LGA representation.
- Benefit:
- Protects members’ interests and ensures their challenges are addressed at all levels.
Conflict Resolution
- Implementation:
- Set up a grievance system to resolve disputes quickly and fairly.
- Benefit:
- Fosters harmony among members, allowing them to focus on growth.
4. Recognition and Awards
Celebrating Excellence
- Implementation:
- Launch an annual awards program to recognize outstanding contributions and achievements in various sectors.
- Benefit:
- Encourages innovation and hard work, boosting members’ morale and reputation.
Marketing Support for Winners
- Implementation:
- Provide winners with marketing support, including media promotions and international exposure.
- Benefit:
- Enhances business visibility, leading to more sales and partnerships.
5. Capacity for Collective Bargaining
Bulk Procurement of Raw Materials
- Implementation:
- Pool members’ resources to purchase raw materials in bulk at discounted rates.
- Benefit:
- Reduces production costs for members, increasing profitability.
Joint Ventures
- Implementation:
- Facilitate collaborations among members for large-scale projects or contracts.
- Benefit:
- Enables members to undertake projects they might not have been able to handle individually.
6. Personal and Professional Growth
Leadership Opportunities
- Implementation:
- Provide leadership roles at various levels (ward, LGA, state, etc.) based on merit and contribution.
- Benefit:
- Empowers members to take on responsibilities that enhance their leadership skills and influence.
Affiliate Marketing and Referral Bonuses
- Implementation: to
- Offer commissions to members who bring in new members or help sell products listed on the marketplace.
- Benefit:
- Creates additional income streams for members while growing the association.
How This Document Improves Members' Welfare and Business Growth
1. Structured Framework:
- Clearly defined roles and responsibilities ensure that members at every level are adequately represented and supported.
2. Equitable Resource Distribution:
- Transparent funding-sharing methods and resource allocation prevent marginalization, fostering unity and trust.
3.Sustainable Growth:
- By focusing on capacity building, market access, and innovation, members can expand their businesses sustainably.
4. Supportive Community:
- The structure promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving, creating a strong, supportive network.
5. Global Competitiveness:
- Through training, export support, and branding, members are equipped to compete effectively in international markets.
This document serves as a roadmap to transform NALPAN into a member-centric association that prioritizes welfare, fosters growth, and strengthens Nigeria’s leather industry.
Why Membership License Categories Are Beneficial
1. Recognizes Business Diversity
- The leather industry includes micro, small, medium, and large enterprises. License categories allow NALPAN to cater to the specific needs and challenges of each group.
- It ensures that every practitioner, regardless of size, feels valued and represented.
2. Encourages Inclusivity
- Categories make it easier for smaller businesses and startups to join by offering lower fees and tailored benefits.
- Larger businesses can also feel encouraged to participate, knowing their contributions and needs are recognized at a higher level.
3. Improves Revenue Generation
- By having tiered membership fees based on business size, NALPAN can generate more resources for funding programs, training, and advocacy.
- This approach ensures fairness, as larger businesses pay higher fees while smaller ones contribute within their means.
4. Enables Tailored Programs and Support
- Each category can receive customized benefits such as training, funding opportunities, and marketing support that align with their scale and goals.
5. Encourages Professionalism and Standardization
- Licensing creates a sense of professionalism and pride among members.
- It establishes a clear standard for practitioners nationwide, improving the industry's reputation.
Proposed Membership License Categories
1. Category A: Micro Practitioners
- Description: Small-scale artisans, startups, and home-based leather workers.
- Fee Structure: Lowest fee tier.
- Benefits:
- Access to basic training and entry-level funding.
- Participation in community leather clusters.
- Marketing and mentorship support.
2. Category B: Small Enterprises
- Description: Small businesses with limited production capacity and a small team.
- Fee Structure: Moderate fee tier.
- Benefits:
- Advanced training and workshops.
- Access to loans and grants tailored to small businesses.
- Inclusion in regional trade fairs and marketing programs.
3. Category C: Medium Enterprises
- Description: Businesses with a growing workforce, higher production capacity, and a local market presence.
- Fee Structure: Higher fee tier.
- Benefits:
- Export facilitation programs and certifications.
- Opportunities for partnerships and joint ventures.
- Inclusion in national trade fairs and branding initiatives.
4. Category D: Large Enterprises
- Description: Established businesses with a significant market share and extensive production capacity.
- Fee Structure: Premium fee tier.
- Benefits:
- Access to policymaker engagements and advocacy platforms.
- Priority placement in international expos and global partnerships.
- Dedicated business consultancy and R&D support.
5. Category E: Institutional Members
- Description: Tanning factories, educational institutions, suppliers, and research organizations.
- Fee Structure: Tailored to organizational capacity.
- Benefits:
- Collaboration opportunities for training and research.
- Inclusion in national policy discussions.
- Branding as strategic partners of NALPAN.
How It Will Improve NALPAN Members Nationwide
1. Increased Membership Participation
- More practitioners will join NALPAN as the license categories make it affordable and relevant to all.
2. Equitable Representation
- Each category can elect representatives at the national, regional, state, and local levels to ensure their voices are heard.
3. Targeted Support and Growth
- Members receive resources and programs that align with their business scale, fostering sustainable growth across the industry.
4. Improved Data Collection and Planning
- Categorization helps NALPAN gather accurate data on members’ sizes and needs, leading to better planning and decision-making.
5. Enhanced National Impact
- A structured and categorized membership strengthens NALPAN’s ability to advocate for the leather industry, attract funding, and implement large-scale projects.
Implementation Steps for Membership License Categories
1. Membership Audit and Classification:
- Conduct a national survey to categorize existing members based on size, revenue, and workforce.
2. Fee and Benefit Structure:
- Develop a fee and benefit structure for each category to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
3. Awareness Campaign:
- Launch a campaign to educate practitioners about the benefits of membership licenses.
4. Digital Membership Portal:
- Create an online platform for registration, license renewal, and access to benefits.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Set up a committee to review the impact of license
Comments
Post a Comment