The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has emphasized the crucial importance of ensuring that exported foods from Nigeria consistently meet international standards to avoid rejection at destination ports.
Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPC, conveyed this message during a one-day technical session focused on addressing non-compliance with food safety standards in oil palm production, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Ayeni underscored the commitment of NEPC to enforcing compliance in food standards by enhancing the capacity of actors in the oil palm value chain through seminars and workshops.
She highlighted that recent exports of oil palm from Nigeria faced stricter restrictions at international markets due to non-compliance issues.
She stressed that exported foods must adhere to international standards to prevent the risk of rejection at destination ports. Ayeni acknowledged the significance of oil palm, a major agricultural commodity globally, with a global market worth exceeding $45 billion.
She noted that NEPC had implemented various programs and interventions in the oil palm industry, including capacity building, training, and sponsorship of stakeholders to study the Malaysian model of operation.
Ayeni affirmed NEPC’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to revitalize the oil palm industry, with the goal of positioning Nigeria as a net exporter of oil palm.
She expressed gratitude to participants, resource persons, and stakeholders, emphasizing that the knowledge gained from the seminar would enhance the acceptability, visibility, and market access for Nigerian exportable products.
Mr. Idongesit Essien, the Akwa Ibom State Coordinator for NEPC, highlighted the council’s role in developing and promoting the non-oil sector. He mentioned the one-state-one-product policy, designed to empower states to maximize locally available resources for economic growth. Acknowledging Akwa Ibom State’s status as a major oil palm producer, Essien noted the need for the state to transition into a major exporter of oil palm, aligning with the national export basket.
He also recognized the abundance of other resources in Akwa Ibom State, including seafood, solid minerals, manufacturing, and services. Despite these resources, Essien emphasized the importance of leveraging the potential of oil palm and seafood for inclusion in the national export portfolio.
