The Agricultural sector is a powerhouse of opportunities, contributing 25 percent to Nigeria’s GDP and employing over 70 percent of the workforce.
Recognising the potential for global growth, NEPC and NiDCOM are partnering to engage the diaspora in expanding Nigeria’s export reach. This was emphasised by Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, (NEPC), during a strategic meeting at NiDCOM Headquarters in Abuja.
Mrs. Ayeni highlighted that the Council’s primary mandate, which focuses on coordinating and harmonising export development and promotion activities, aligns with initiatives such as “Seeing Beyond Borders” and “Nigerian Heritage City.” She explained that these programmes are designed to foster growth in Nigeria’s non-oil export sector.
Speaking on the partnership with Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs. Ayeni noted that it will lead to the establishment of the Diaspora Export Market Place (DEMP). This initiative aims to provide crucial insights into market size and requirements, allowing Nigerians in the diaspora to understand the vast opportunities that exist back home.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed her appreciation to NEPC for its collaborative efforts in introducing the Diaspora Export Market Place. She acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora who are already producing in Nigeria and exporting to various countries globally.
The NiDCOM Boss also encouraged Nigerians to explore opportunities in the textile industry, urging them not to rely solely on the Asian market in the diaspora.
She therefore advocated the establishment of Nigerian networks in their host countries, advising that challenges from regulatory bodies should not be a bottleneck.
She further urged that the Nigerian Export Promotion Council’s involvement at the upcoming 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), scheduled for November 5–7, 2024, would enhance opportunities for collaboration and growth in the non-oil export sector.
