The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Cross River State Coordinating Office has launched an extensive training initiative to educate over 100 newly inducted exporters on the fundamentals of the export business. This workshop is designed to equip participants with essential knowledge on exporting and the global trade landscape.
Dr. Osas Damain, the state coordinator, opened the session by welcoming the newly registered companies, potential exporters, and distinguished guests to the event, which was held at Atsuit Hotel, Calabar, Cross River State. He expressed the NEPC’s commitment to guiding these exporters as they venture into international markets.
Dr. Damain emphasized the growing significance of Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, which has seen a remarkable rise from $2.210 billion in 2020 to $4.517 billion in 2023, despite the challenging economic environment. He highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to increase its foreign exchange earnings, particularly as the naira continues to depreciate against major currencies.
In response, the NEPC has intensified its efforts to boost export activities across the country. Dr. Damain noted the new initiatives launched by Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, the newly appointed Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, under the campaign slogan “Operation Double Your Exports.” This initiative aims to increase Nigeria’s export potential by encouraging new exporters to get involved in the global market.
The workshop was designed to achieve several objectives: educating participants on the essential steps to succeed in the export business, explaining the documentation process required for smooth international transactions, and providing insights into the common challenges and opportunities within the export sector. The aim was to help participants meet the necessary standards and requirements for successfully exporting products abroad.
Dr. Abigail Duke Orok, the State Commissioner for Commerce, officially opened the event and stressed that there are no shortcuts in the export business. She encouraged the exporters to fully utilize the state government’s policies and resources to enhance their export activities.
The event also featured a guest lecture by Anie Iton, the CEO of Brightflow Logistics, who shared valuable insights on non-export opportunities within the export business. She explained the importance of risk management, cash flow management, consignment handling, product development, and compliance with government regulations. Iton also emphasized the significance of continuous learning and adapting to the changing dynamics of the export industry.
Representatives from key organizations, including Nexim Bank, NAFDAC, SON, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, CALCIMA, and the Nigeria Customs Service, delivered goodwill messages and extended their support to the exporters, highlighting their roles in facilitating smoother trade processes.
