At a recent technical session in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) convened to discuss plans to collaborate with key stakeholders in the oil palm industry to revive Nigeria’s status as a significant exporter of palm oil.

The significance of this initiative was underscored by Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, who emphasized the remarkable global market value of palm oil, standing at an impressive $45 billion. She further highlighted the versatility of palm oil, as it serves as a vital ingredient in a wide array of products. Furthermore, Ayeni highlighted the pivotal role of palm oil as a major agricultural product in Abia State.
During the session, NEPC’s representative, Fred-Ilogben Macpherson, presented export data that showcased the recent trends in Nigeria’s palm oil exports. In 2021, the country exported 64.14 metric tonnes of palm oil, amounting to a value of $44,689.30. Subsequently, this figure notably increased in 2022, with exports reaching 350.72 metric tonnes valued at $828,323.32. Reflecting the continued growth, by September 2023, Nigeria had exported 96.44 metric tonnes of palm oil, resulting in a total value of $52,724.98.
These statistics vividly illustrate a significant increase in both the volume and value of palm oil exports, reflecting the positive growth trajectory in this critical sector. The collaborative efforts of NEPC and the oil palm industry stakeholders hold great promise in further enhancing Nigeria’s position as a major exporter of palm oil, thereby contributing to the country’s economic growth and global trade influence.
Nonye Ayeni, the CEO of NEPC, highlighted the crucial role of palm oil in Abia State’s agricultural sector and urged stakeholders to prioritize meeting international quality standards.

During the session, Fred-Ilogben Macpherson, NEPC’s representative, shared encouraging data indicating a notable increase in Nigeria’s palm oil exports, signaling positive growth in the sector. This progress reflects the council’s dedication to promoting economic diversification and developing strategies to maintain high standards.
Udeme Bassey Edet, a representative from Sustainable Smallholders Oil Palm Services Company Limited, emphasized the necessity of implementing best management practices in palm plantations to optimize yield. He recommended the use of “Tenerra” palm seedlings and specified fertilizers to enhance oil palm production.
By the end of the dialogue, it became clear that the collaborative efforts between NEPC and industry stakeholders hold great promise for boosting Nigeria’s position as a major palm oil exporter. This prospect not only contributes to the country’s economic growth but also enhances its influence in global trade.
The focus on quality and best practices underscores the potential for Nigeria to reclaim its significant global standing in the palm oil export industry, as emphasized by Ayeni.
This effectively encapsulates the discussion and lays the groundwork for future actions aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s palm oil export industry.

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