NEPC PUSH FOR IMPROVED PACKAGING & QUALITY STANDARDS OF EXPORT PRODUCTS
In line with meeting international standards on packaging and export products, the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Kogi chapter, has reaffirmed its readiness to support SMEs in meeting global market demands through improved packaging, quality compliance and strengthened export capacity.
This was stated during a stakeholders’ workshop held at the Technology Incubation Centre, on Wednesday in Lokoja, Kogi State.
The event which was themed “Enhancing Nigerian SMEs Through Good Packaging and Quality Compliance for Export in Kogi State” was to ensure that locally produced goods, become globally competitive by adhering to international standards and proper regulatory procedures in Nigeria & the world at large.
Commissioner for Commerce & Industry, Hon. Muhammed Muktar Shuaibu, urged participants to take advantage of the programme, stressing that packaging and quality remain the determining factors for acceptance in international markets.
“Packaging determines how far our products can go; stated the Commissioner, “once we dress them well and follow the right procedures, our SMEs can compete anywhere in the world.”
Declaring the event open, Hon. Shuaibu who was ably represented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Ejeh Michael, reiterated that the Ododo-led government’s resolve, is to continue to support all initiatives, aimed at reducing export rejection and increasing the state’s contribution to national export earnings.
NEPC State Coordinator, Mr. Usenide Aniekpeno, on his part, appreciated the presence of all stakeholders and expressed confidence that the training would significantly improve the export readiness of Kogi-based SMEs.
In addition to his welcome address, he explained that NEPC remains dedicated to building the capacity of entrepreneurs and ensuring that Kogi State continues to advance in non-oil export activities.
“This workshop is a strategic point in our mission to strengthen the global visibility of Kogi’s non-oil products” he stated.
Representative of the Director-General of the Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Export Promotion and Market Development Agency (KOSCEPA), Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, also spoke on the importance of meeting global specifications, explaining that factors such as moisture levels, hygiene, proper sealing, labeling, and packaging durability remain critical to export success.
Earlier, a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the NEPC CEO by the Regional Controller, North Central Region, Barr. Julie Omoke, emphasized the agency’s ongoing drive to multiply Nigeria’s non-oil export volume.
Omoke commended the synergy among agencies and reminded participants that Kogi State possesses immense export potential in commodities such as cashew, sesame seed, soya beans, cassava and several value-added products, stating that there is a plan in play “to working not just to double but to triple Nigeria’s export performance, and Kogi State remaining one of the most strategic contributors.”
Highlight of the event was the technical session by Dr. Baba Yahaya, who provided an extensive presentation on packaging standards, international regulations, compliance requirements, labeling accuracy, environmental considerations, and the importance of aligning product preparation with the standards of target countries.
Stressing that packaging is the first impression and a major determinant of market acceptance, Yahaya urged SMEs to embrace proper documentation, testing, and regulatory guidance to avoid costly export rejections.
A vote of thanks was given by a participant, who commended NEPC, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and all partner agencies for providing such a valuable and enlightening workshop.
Stakeholders concluded the event with a renewed commitment to strengthening packaging practices, improving quality control, and ensuring that products originating from Kogi State consistently meet international expectations for export.
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