NEPC Vows to accelerate competitiveness for Nigerian export brands

VICTOR DURUAMAKU, Owerri

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has vowed  to intensify  its efforts at making Nigeria’s exportable brands more competitive in the African market.

Executive Director of the NEPC, Dr Ezra Yakusak said this in Owerri on Friday at a workshop organised by the Council in conjunction with the Export Expansion Facility Programme.

Speaking on the theme : “Role of AfCFTA in the Growth and Development of Intra-African Trade”, Yakusak noted Nigeria as the single largest market in Africa.

Represented by NEPC’s Trade Promotion Advisor in Imo, state , Mr Tony Ajuruchi the executive Director assured that the NEPC would ensure that Nigerian exporters were adequately prepared for business through partnerships with relevant development partners, local and international.

He further said ” a good understanding of laws and treaties of the AfCFTA by Nigeria’s exporters would aid effective access to the African regional market and make Nigerian made goods the pride of the African market”

 ” It is apt to mention that hard work, credibility and transparency are the hallmark of the export business hence, the NEPC’s commitment to public  enlightenment for improved marketability of our exportable brands.

 ” We shall continually sustain increased efforts to accelerate competitiveness of Nigerian exportable brands in the AfCFTA market “, he said.

 Imo  state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr Simon Ebegbulam  in his own contribution said that  the state government is committed to creating  enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state

The Commissioner, spoke through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr G. E. Nnah pointing out that exportation among other things, creates employment, reduces poverty and promotes bilateral relationships.

Also, the Coordinator, Imo Exporters Group, His Royal Highness, Eze George Eke said that arrangements were in top gear to have the state’s export brands such as palm oil, ginger, tumeric and others in the US market.

He however urged the Federal Government to reopen the Onne export corridor in Rivers  state as a way of supporting the AfCFTA and further encouraging ease of exporting Imo brands.

Barr Ben Acho, the representative of NEPC’s legal unit harped on the need for legitimate exportation with due regard for existing legal procedures associated with exports.

This, he said, would make exporters eligible for government’s  stimulus plans and export support grants.