FG Launches Committee to Boost Agricultural Exports

The Federal Government of Nigeria inaugurated an Interministerial Committee on the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) in Abuja, aimed at strengthening the country's agricultural biosecurity system, boosting non-oil exports, and facilitating international trade. Dr.

Deborah O.N. Odoh, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, representing Sen.

Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, emphasized the need for an efficient agricultural quarantine system to protect Nigeria's agricultural resources and enhance access to global markets. Dr.

Odoh noted the financial losses from the rejection of agricultural exports due to non-compliance with international standards. The Committee's establishment reflects the government's commitment to improving policy coordination and aligning Nigeria's agricultural quarantine system with global best practices.

Dr. Vincent Isegbe, the Comptroller-General of NAQS, highlighted the Service's role in pest risk analysis and quarantine procedures to ensure compliance with international standards.

Mr. Auwal Mohammed, Director of Economic Growth at the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, described the inauguration as a significant step towards enhancing inter-agency collaboration for agricultural development and economic diversification.