馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
NEPC and International Trade Centre collaborate on sesame and cowpea export compliance in Kano
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council NEPC, in partnership with the International Trade Centre, has initiated a two-day workshop in Kano to enhance communication strategies for sanitary and phytosanitary SPS compliance in sesame and cowpea exports. The event, which began on Tuesday, gathers farmers, exporters, associations, and development partners to tackle issues affecting export quality and reduce the rejection of Nigerian agricultural products in international markets. Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of NEPC, stated that the initiative aims to identify gaps and improve coordination in addressing SPS concerns within these value chains. She emphasized the importance of effective communication for improving compliance and informing stakeholders about local and global standards. Ayeni highlighted Nigeria's record non-oil export value of $6.1 billion in 2025, with 281 products exported to 120 countries. She noted the council's expanded operations and facilitation of international certifications for over 210 exporters. The workshop is part of the STDF 845 initiative launched in 2024, with NEPC as the implementing agency, working with organizations like SON, NAFDAC, and NAQS to significantly reduce export rejections. Macpherson Fred, Director of Product Development at NEPC, explained that the program is a two-part engagement, with a communication and awareness workshop for farmers and primary producers from April 14 to 15, followed by export quality manag
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