Dike Onwuamaeze
In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance Nigeria’s non-oil export sector, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and NexHub have successfully shipped 11 containers of processed agricultural foods to China. This significant development was announced by NACCIMA’s National President, Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye, at the recent 2024 Lagos NACCIMA Nex Hub Conference.
The shipment event was attended by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Titilayo Helen Adesina, who formally handed over the containers to Mr. Kola Oladeji, Comptroller of the Federal Operation Unit for the Nigerian Customs Service. Notable attendees included Mr. Fegho John Umunubo, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Digital and Creative Economy, and Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, Commissioner for Commerce in Osun State.
Oye emphasized the conference’s role in promoting Nigeria’s non-oil exports, stressing that diversifying the economy beyond oil is crucial. “As we strive to reduce our over-reliance on oil, it is essential that we continue nurturing the growth of the non-oil export sector,” he stated.
He traced the origins of NexHub back to the launch of the Nigerian Export Trade House in China, an initiative by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council launched in April 2023. He urged exporters in Nigeria to leverage the numerous advantages offered by the NexHub platform, which enables them to export their goods and services through the export trade house.
Oye highlighted key benefits of the NexHub, including training on export processes, insights on suitable goods and services to export, guidance on export destinations, and connections with potential buyers. “Among our partners are Nexim Bank and NACCIMA,” he noted.
He also addressed the significance of the National Single Window project, praising the administration of President Bola Tinubu for its establishment on April 16, 2024. Oye called this a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to streamline trade processes and promote economic integration. “President Tinubu stated that transitioning to paperless trade could provide an annual economic benefit of approximately $2.7 billion. The National Single Window project has the potential to revolutionize Nigeria’s trade landscape,” he explained.
Oye further remarked that with a strong foundation and a well-composed steering committee, the National Single Window project could be a game changer in Nigeria’s quest for economic diversification and growth.
He showcased the fruitful collaboration between NACCIMA and NexHub, which has led to the establishment of the NACCIMA Nigeria Office in Hunan, China, serving as a crucial connection for Nigerian exporters to the Chinese and Asian markets. “Additionally, we are thrilled about the upcoming launch of the NACCIMA Nigeria House in Detroit, Michigan, aimed at serving the American and Canadian markets. These achievements underscore the impact of private partnerships and the dedication of organizations like NACCIMA and NexHub in advancing non-oil export growth.”
