Business
AWAEMP Seeks Transformative Policies To Boost Nigeria’s Exports
The Association of West Africa Export and Maritime Professionals (AWAEMP) has advocated for transformative policies that will enhance export trade in Nigeria.
The group made the call at the 2024 Annual Summit held in Lagos on Thursday.
President of AWAEMP, Mr. Olubunmi Olumekun, who said the year had both been rewarding and challenging, but lamented how foreign dominance, government policies, pricing have stunted export trade in the outgoing year.
He said there were concerns about foreign entities dominating local industries, particularly in logistics and port operations.
According to him, the situation raises concerns about job security for indigenous operators and the need for policies that prioritize local content.
He further stated that there was need for competitive pricing to be highlighted, as Nigerian shippers face challenges in competing with foreign counterparts.
Olumekun noted that there was a call for more considerate pricing strategies to ensure that Nigerian products can compete effectively in international markets.
The AWAEMP leader stated that there is the necessity for strong policies to restrict foreign involvement in certain local businesses
Olubunmi who also doubles as the President, Barge Operators of Nigeria (BOAN), said the move would help protect local jobs and ensure that the benefits of export activities are retained within the country.
Earlier, the President noted that non-oil export trade is identified as a critical sector that can drive the nation’s economy, which he described as essential for improving foreign exchange earnings.
He also highlighted the significance of the introduction of Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) by the Nigerian Port Authority as a positive step that will add value to the export process, saying the initiative would help to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in the export sector.
According to him, increased Export Volume Recent statistics indicate a significant volume of non-oil exports, with over 27,595 containers valued at over N1.9 billion.
This reflects progress in the export sector and the establishment of a unified command for export operations.
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic, Lagos