FG takes steps towards traceable technology implementation
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Federal Government says it is taking steps to ensure the adoption and full implementation of traceability technology in the agricultural commodities production and export value chain in the country.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investments Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, disclosed this while opening a sensitization training workshop in Kano on Thursday.
Rimi said the workshop marked a pivotal step in fostering understanding and collaboration to realize the immense potential of a national traceability system.
To achieve the objective,he said,the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investments was driving the sensitization of relevant stakeholders for a successful implementation.
He noted that the innovative system promised to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural commodities value chain, unlock access to international markets and significantly boost revenue generation for the country.
According to the permanent secretary, Nigeria’s abundant natural resources, particularly its rich array of agricultural commodities, positioned it as a global contender.
“However, challenges related to product quality, safety and compliance with international standards have hindered our market access.
“By implementing a robust traceability system, we can decisively address these concerns and create an environment where Nigerian farmers, processors, marketers, and exporters can thrive in the competitive global marketplace.
“Globally, traceability systems are rapidly becoming the gold standard in ensuring quality, transparency and accountability within supply chains,” he said.
He said countries such as the United States and those within the European Union had already mandated traceability frameworks to enhance food safety and quality.
Rimi noted that adopting the system in Nigeria aligned with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthen the agricultural sector’s contribution to the economy and secure a competitive edge on the global stage.
“The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment remains steadfast in its mission to drive industrial growth, foster trade relations, and attract investments.
“Traceability technology represents a cornerstone of this strategy, as it builds trust, enhances product credibility, and ensures compliance with international standards which are the key factors for unlocking the potential of our agricultural exports.
“I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will make lasting strides in enhancing the prosperity and development of our great nation,” he added.
The workshop featured PowerPoint presentations on Rules of Origin in Cross-Border Trade; Implications on Market Access of Nigeria’s Commodities in AFCFTA and beyond.