FIC Report (Benue State) – The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Benue State’s non-oil export sector through strategic interventions aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of exporters.
The Benue State Coordinator of NEPC, Ms. Ann Adulugba, stated this on Tuesday, 21st July, 2026, during a sensitisation workshop on “Enhancing Exporters’ Global Competitiveness by Leveraging Digital Tools,” held at Greg & Co. ITC Hub, Makurdi.
Adulugba disclosed that the Council has established Soybean, Sesame Seed, Shea Nut and Yam Export Clusters to improve production, product quality, traceability, aggregation and access to international markets.
She explained that NEPC is supporting exporters to improve product quality and obtain relevant certifications, while providing guidance on export standards, packaging and other requirements necessary for successful participation in global markets.
According to her, the Council is also promoting emerging export commodities such as ginger and hibiscus to diversify Benue State’s export portfolio and create additional income opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.
She attributed the achievements recorded by the Council to effective collaboration with key stakeholders, including the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), commodity associations, cooperatives, development partners, government agencies and the private sector.
Describing digital technology as indispensable to modern export business, Adulugba said digital platforms provide exporters with opportunities to access global markets, promote their products, connect with international buyers and improve operational efficiency.
She urged participants to maximise the knowledge gained from the workshop and encouraged prospective exporters to register with the Council and obtain an Exporter’s Certificate to benefit from NEPC’s programmes, advisory services, capacity-building initiatives and market intelligence.
Delivering a presentation titled “The Seven Steps to Export Readiness: A Practical Guide for SMEs and New Exporters,” an officer of the NEPC Trade Information Department, Mr. Iyanuoluwa Ajayi, outlined the key requirements for businesses seeking to compete successfully in international markets.
Ajayi identified the seven steps as strategic ambition, market research, market access, product identification and sourcing, product pricing, export finance, and export documentation.
He explained that exporters must understand their target markets, comply with international quality standards, adopt competitive pricing strategies, secure appropriate financing and ensure accurate documentation to avoid shipment delays and penalties.
According to him, export readiness is a continuous process that requires careful planning, continuous learning and constant improvement.
He advised businesses to assess their level of preparedness, identify suitable products and target markets, and adopt a strategic approach to exporting.
Also speaking, Mr. Taiye Ibiyeye, Senior Trade Promotion Officer in the NEPC Trade Information Department, stressed the importance of adequate market research before venturing into export business. He cautioned exporters against dealing in prohibited products and urged them to comply strictly with international trade regulations.
In a goodwill message, the Chief Executive Officer of Beauty Green Africa Limited, Mrs. Alison Amuta, advised entrepreneurs to build strong business profiles and embrace digital technologies to improve their visibility and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
Similarly, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Benue Investment Promotion Agency (BENIPA), Mr. Johnpaul Kpenkaan, represented by Mr. Michael Oguwche, urged businesses to obtain the necessary certifications and maintain high product quality to meet the expectations of international consumers and investors.
He noted that quality finishing, standardisation and certification remain critical requirements for attracting global buyers and investment opportunities.
Also delivering a goodwill message, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Benue Agricultural Development Company (BADC), Mr. Donald A. Akule, commended women entrepreneurs for their significant contribution to the state’s export sector.
Akule noted that Benue possesses numerous export-worthy products but requires stronger export integrity, standardisation and value addition to maximise opportunities in international markets.
He expressed satisfaction that women constitute a large percentage of exporters in the state, describing their participation as a catalyst for sustainable growth and credibility in the sector.
He appealed to the NEPC and its Benue State office to continue supporting exporters through strategic interventions that would enable them to compete effectively in the global marketplace.
The workshop featured product exhibitions by participating businesses, providing an opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase a wide range of export-ready products and interact with stakeholders in the non-oil export value chain.
Bridget Tarker
For: Head of Centre
Federal Information Centre, Makurdi
