Newly registered and potential exporters have received training from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in Akwa Ibom on the techniques necessary for successful exportation of goods and services around the world.
According to Mrs. Pauline Ndulaka, Deputy Director of the NEPC’s Uyo Assistance Office, on Wednesday revealed that the one-day training on export for beginners became important to support the expansion of the non-oil industry,
The volume of non-oil exports from Nigeria, according to Ndulaka, had been severely constrained by a lack of awareness of export procedures.
“Before an export commences, the exporter must be sure of the product and also ensure that the market for the product is readily available by making enquiries.
“Your presence here today is a confirmation of the interest and commitment you have placed on the growth and development of the non-oil sector in the state.
“It requires that more preparation is made by the exporters before starting an export business.’’
Through the workshop, the newly registered exporters, according to Ndulaka, would help diversify the productive foundation of the country’s economy away from oil by producing export goods with a focus on the market.
She urged them to cultivate a strong enthusiasm and devotion for the company, as well as to make an effort to first identify a product before conducting market research on the industry they want to enter.
Mr. Camillus Umoh, the commissioner for trade and investment for Akwa Ibom, praised the NEPC for consistently including exporters in admirable programs to foster the growth of the non-oil industry in his remarks.
The export industry, according to Umoh, is tremendously profitable and should be pursued with zeal as it is still the only method to make hard currency.
He said that the state had abundant natural resources that were ideal for export and in which the government had made significant investments.
The commissioner further stated that the state would keep working with the NEPC to improve the agricultural value chain for export.
Dr. Offiong Offor, the commissioner for agriculture in Akwa Ibom, stated in her speech that the government’s agricultural initiatives have improved the state’s farmers’ morale.
Offor said the state government had continued to support farmers with seedlings, herbicides, pesticides, and loans to boost agriculture in the state. Offor was represented by the Director of Animal Husbandry, Mr. Aniefiok Isong.
She said that the state government would keep working with the NEPC to support export growth and the expansion of the economy’s non-oil sector.
Mr. Naeche John, the state coordinator for the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), delivered a presentation on “Quality and Standardization of Product for Export.”
He cautioned exporters against rushing to ship without the necessary paperwork.
According to John, ineffective agricultural planning and practices have been a significant obstacle to the success of the export industry.
He asked the newly registered exporters to consult with specialists, complete necessary paperwork, and make an effort to comprehend the requirements of the Nigeria export.
