How Sheabutter Can Boost Nigeria’s Export Earnings, By NEPC
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In pursuant of the federal government’s economic diversification agenda intended to boost foreign exchange earnings from non-oil exports, the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council, NEPC has lunched a sensitization programme on developing Sheabutter value chain for exports.
The event which took place in Calabar, is also expected to boost the production capacity of the rural women involved in Sheabutter production in a bid to meet the high global demands for the commodity.
Speaking during the launching programme, Chief Trade Advisor, NEPC Calabar Office, Emmanuel Etim disclosed that the awareness campaign was meant to build the capacity of local producers as well as to harness the vast potentials of the State in Sheabutter production for optimum benefits.
According to him, “Cross River is richly endowed in terms of Sheabutter trees, our goal is to train local women on how to optimize the production process from Shea nuts to the butter and packaging it for exports without loosing essential values vital to maximum profit in the processing”.
In her address, the Trade Promotion Officer, Slyvia Adeneye applauded the child care and adult protection group for collaborating in facilitating the event and expressed optimism that the synergy will guarantee attainment of set goals for mutual benefits.
Also speaking, one of the resource persons and Trade Promotion Officer, NEPC Markudi, Benue State, Ben Egom revealed that the initiative would equip stakeholders in Cross River with vital skills needed to maximize the vast economic benefits inherent in Sheabutter cultivation.
He stated that Benue, Oyo, Niger, Osun and Cross River were the largest producers of the commodity in Nigeria, hence it was imperative to expose the farmers to innovative concepts in the production chain.
Commenting on the development, Chief Executive Officer, Child Care and Adult Protection, Eve Ori expressed delight at the partnership noting that it will enhance financial status of producers.
