Nigeria Aims for Full Membership in Palm Oil Council

Nigeria is pursuing full membership in the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries to strengthen agricultural cooperation and trade relations with Indonesia, according to Eze Nduka Thomas, Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires ad interim. Thomas made this announcement during a meeting with Nigerian journalists at the Nigerian Embassy in Indonesia.

He noted that Nigeria is transitioning from observer status to full membership before the end of 2026, as previously announced by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The council promotes cooperation among palm oil-producing countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia, and offers a platform for addressing international trade barriers and sustainability regulations.

Nigeria currently produces about 1.4 million metric tonnes of crude palm oil annually, while domestic demand is approximately three million tonnes. The council has also proposed a two-year waiver of membership fees for Nigeria.

Thomas encouraged Nigerian investors to explore business opportunities in Indonesia, highlighting the need to understand the local business culture to build trust with Indonesian partners.