The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), the foremost body championing the growth of Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, has called on manufacturers in Aba-Abia State’s bustling commercial hub-to strictly adhere to established certification and quality benchmarks for their export goods. This compliance is essential to boost their competitiveness on the international stage.
Although Aba’s footwear industry has a longstanding history of trading with neighboring West and Central African countries, much of this commerce operates informally, limiting access to official export incentives and support mechanisms.
During a recent export development workshop in Aba, Nonye Ayeni, NEPC’s Executive Director and CEO, underscored the importance of fostering a culture of certification among Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their penetration into global markets. The seminar offered practical advice on implementing quality assurance and certification procedures tailored for export products.
Representing NEPC’s State Coordinator, Okechukwu Amaechi, Ayeni emphasized that product certification is vital for ensuring safety, building consumer trust, meeting regulatory requirements, reducing product rejections, and aligning with international standards.
NEPC has consistently rolled out initiatives aimed at accelerating the growth of the non-oil export industry. This seminar formed part of a broader strategy to educate exporters on the critical role of product standardization and certification in expanding their global reach.
Anthony Emeh, Abia State Coordinator for the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), expressed concerns about the reluctance among some Aba manufacturers to embrace product standardization. He observed that many view SON and similar regulatory agencies as barriers rather than partners in business development.
Emeh clarified, “SON’s mission is to facilitate trade, not obstruct it. We are equally committed to protecting consumer interests. Our standards are developed collaboratively with industry stakeholders, not imposed arbitrarily. Certification is a crucial step for any product destined for export to guarantee its quality and dependability.”
He further noted that adopting standardization empowers brands to scale operations and compete effectively in the marketplace, urging Aba manufacturers to utilize SON’s resources to certify their products and prepare them for export.
Ejike Nnamani, Deputy Director of the Abia branch of the Nigerian Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), shared insights on “The Significance of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in Upholding Product Quality.” He encouraged producers to implement GMP to consistently produce and regulate products that meet quality standards suitable for their intended applications.
Nnamani highlighted that steadfast adherence to GMP principles ensures reliable product quality, a key determinant of success in both domestic and international markets.
Ukachi Nwaojigba, Head of Trade Information at NEPC’s Abia office, detailed the Council’s support services for exporters, including assistance with accurate documentation and quality control to maintain high standards across all exported goods.
In her presentation titled “Navigating Export Trade,” Nwaojigba described NEPC as a crucial platform where exporters can connect, exchange knowledge, and collaboratively tackle challenges related to export expansion, thereby fostering valuable networking opportunities.
She added, “For exporters unsure about sourcing particular products, NEPC offers guidance on locating these items within Nigeria. Moreover, registered exporters can access various government grants and incentives designed to support and grow the export sector.”