The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) has expressed concern over the growing rejection of Nigeria’s agro-products in international markets, attributing it to inadequate packaging practices. This trend, according to the NSC, is negatively impacting the nation’s economy.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ enlightenment workshop on proper packaging systems in Makurdi, NSC Executive Secretary Mr. Pius Ukeyima emphasized that the rejection of these products stems from exporters’ failure to adhere to international packaging standards.
“Benue State, rich in natural resources and agricultural potential, offers a wide variety of products with significant export potential. However, many of these products are wasted due to ignorance about proper packaging,” Ukeyima said. He highlighted the state’s abundant agricultural produce, including yam, cassava, rice, and livestock, and stressed that proper packaging could position Benue as a key player in Nigeria’s export sector.
He continued by stating that packaging is not just a method of wrapping products but a critical element in the export process. Effective packaging, according to Ukeyima, protects the integrity of goods and ensures compliance with international standards, thereby enhancing their marketability and contributing to economic development.
The executive secretary lamented that many Nigerian exporters fail to understand the importance of proper packaging in boosting their businesses and the nation’s economy. “The right packaging can significantly influence a buyer’s decision and elevate our products’ appeal in foreign markets,” he noted.
Ukeyima urged exporters to adhere to international packaging regulations specific to their target markets, emphasizing that different countries have varying requirements for safety, labeling, and materials used in packaging. He also advised the use of eco-friendly materials to meet regulatory demands in many regions and strengthen brand image.
Furthermore, he suggested that exporters prototype and test their packaging to identify potential issues with durability, aesthetics, and functionality before exporting.
Benue State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Manasseh Orpin, also addressed the participants, asserting that Benue has the capacity to feed the entire country if its agricultural resources are fully harnessed. Orpin cautioned exporters against bypassing standards, stating that even a well-processed product would be rejected if not properly packaged.
The workshop featured presentations on “The Role of Government Agencies in Non-Oil Exports” and “Proper Packaging Systems: An Essential Tool for Agro Export.” Participants included representatives from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Coalition of Agricultural Mechanisation.
