Nigeria, currently heavily reliant on global cargo imports at 95%, is poised for a transformative shift as it actively seeks to diversify its export landscape. In a strategic move, Nahcoaviance is set to tap into Nigeria’s agricultural potential to alter this import-heavy trend. One catalyst for this change is the recently commissioned N1bn Export Processing and Packaging Centre by NAHCO.
Dr. Seinde Fadeni, Chairman of Nahco’s Board, emphasizes the foreign exchange potential embedded in food exports, calling for increased government support. He urges a collaborative stakeholder meeting to strategize the industry’s growth and recognizes the critical role perishable exports play in sustaining many Nigerians’ livelihoods.
Prior to the establishment of the Export Processing and Packaging Centre, NAHCO had successfully dispatched fresh pepper consignments to Europe in May 2023. This achievement, certified by the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) after consultation with foreign food standards agencies, demonstrated a market for Nigerian products once regulatory requirements were met.
Indranil Gupta, NahcoAviance’s GMD, accentuates Nigeria’s standing as Africa’s food basket and stresses the importance of non-oil exports in enhancing the country’s economy. He sees the new Export Processing and Packaging Centre as a crucial step in meeting global standards for packaging facilities.
“While there is tremendous potential for air freight in transportation of perishables, there is an increasing need for Nigeria to invest in better packaging facilities that meet global standards. This Our Export Processing and Packaging Centre is a contribution towards a major response to meet this need as a nation.” Gupta said.
Mr. Segun Awolowo, Secretary of the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), applauds the facility’s commissioning and envisions positive impacts on both the micro and macro economies. He champions the “Zero Oil Plan,” advocating for Nigeria to produce and export more to thrive in a world less dependent on oil.
Awolowo blames the forex crisis on the country’s limited export sources and highlights the significance of diversifying exports beyond oil to stabilize the foreign exchange. He views the new facility as a crucial step in enabling many exporters to thrive, providing them with a streamlined avenue for exports.
“When you export, you generate more funding. The reason we have this (forex) problem is because our foreign exchange is only coming from oil. And when oil prices drop, then there are challenges if you don’t have that foreign exchange.
“But when you have oil, cocoa, other agricultural products you are exporting, then you are not relying on oil alone and then your foreign exchange stabilises because you have enough. What is happening is that there is too much Naira chasing the little dollar.’
Representing the Minister of Aviation, Olubunmi Kuku, from the Federal Airports Authority, sees export business as pivotal for economic growth. She anticipates improved conditions with the new facility, addressing concerns related to shelf-life, temperature control, packaging, handling, and regulatory compliance.
Kuku assures NAHCO of continuous support and encourages exporters to leverage the facility, expressing hope that it will significantly boost Nigeria’s export numbers, positively impacting the balance of payments and strengthening the Naira.
The new facility stands as a beacon, unlocking Nigeria’s export potential and signaling a promising future for economic growth.
