FIC Report (Imo State) – The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), in collaboration with the Imo State Government, has organized a one-day capacity-building workshop for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Owerri, Imo state with the objectives of enhancing their knowledge of product branding, packaging, and labelling for export.
The training programme focused on equipping entrepreneurs with the skills needed to improve the market appeal and competitiveness of their products in international markets through quality branding and packaging practices.
The Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, represented by the Imo state coordinator NEPC, Mr. Anthony Ajuruchi delivered a presentation on “PACKAGING, LABELLING AND BRANDING PRODUCTS FOR EXPORT,”
She emphasized the critical role that attractive packaging and effective branding play in attracting potential buyers and increasing the acceptance of products in global markets, stressing that product presentation remains a key factor in determining market success.
Mrs. Ayeni encouraged MSMEs to adopt modern packaging techniques and invest in quality product design as a strategic means of gaining a competitive edge in the export sector.
In her words, improving the visual appeal of products to meet internationally accepted standards would significantly enhance their chances of survival and success in the highly competitive global marketplace.
She explained that consumers often form their first impressions based on a product’s appearance, making branding and packaging vital components of export readiness. Mrs. Ayeni encouraged entrepreneurs to pay greater attention to these aspects in order to increase consumer confidence and expand market opportunities.
Furthermore, the NEPC chairman applauded exporters in Imo state for their resilience despite the challenges faced by intense competition and unexpected declining trade activities.
She then urged them to continue exploring innovative ways to enhance product quality, increase profitability, as well as sustain their businesses.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Entrepreneurship, Skill Acquisition and Social Responsibilities, Prof. Chinonye Moses, confirmed the commitment of the Imo State Government to assisting MSMEs through strategic partnerships and initiatives structured to stimulate economic expansion and increase foreign exchange earnings.
Prof. Moses further stated that strengthening the capacity of local entrepreneurs remains a major priority of the state government, given the significant role MSMEs play in job creation, economic development and wealth generation.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Ifeoma Ibeka, commended the participants for their contribution to the growth of local content and indigenous industries. She encouraged business owners to take proactive steps toward protecting their brands and products through patent registration and other intellectual property measures, adding that patenting products would help curb the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard goods while safeguarding the integrity and reputation of genuine businesses.
The workshop was well attended by participants from various sectors, including representatives of the Technology Incubation Centre (TIC), the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), among other relevant stakeholders committed to promoting export development and entrepreneurship in the country.
AKUSHIE, CHIOMA MARK HELEN
HOC., FIC OWERRI.
8/6/2026
