Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), yesterday, decried the increasing rejection of Nigeria’s exported agro-products by other nations and its negative effects on the country’s economy.
NSC Executive Secretary, Mr Pius Ukeyima, disclosed this in his keynote address at a one-day stakeholders enlightenment workshop on proper packaging system in Makurdi.
Ukeyima said the rejection of the products was sequel to their lack of proper packaging by exporters.
According to him, until exporters have a change of heart and imbibe proper packaging system, in compliance with international standards that success will be achieved.
“Look at Benue, which is rich in natural resources and agricultural potential with a variety of products that have significant export potential, but most of the products go to waste due to ignorance about proper packaging.
“But if the rich agricultural produce, including yam, cassava, rice and the vast array of livestock are well packaged, then we can boldly say Benue is poised to become a vital player in Nigeria’s export landscape”, Ukeyima said.
The executive secretary regretted that most exporters in Nigeria failed to understand the tricks of boosting their businesses and the nation’s economy.
“The right packaging can make a lot of difference, influencing a buyer’s decision and elevating our products’ appeal in foreign markets,” he said.