The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced a significant advancement for businesses in Anambra State, revealing that export certificates can now be issued within 24 hours. This announcement was made by Mrs. Uche Emekekwue, Deputy Director of the Enugu/Onitsha Port Inspection Directorate, during a seminar focused on enhancing the non-oil export sector in the state. The event, titled “Accelerating Made-In Anambra by Promoting and Developing Non-Oil Export,” aimed to empower industries and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Mrs. Emekekwue explained that the expedited issuance of export approvals aligns with international best practices, ensuring consistency in export processes. This initiative is expected to bolster Anambra’s position in the growing export market.
MacPherson Fred-Ileogben, the South East Regional Coordinator of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), emphasized Anambra’s abundant resources, urging the state government to collaborate with market leaders to find solutions to the detrimental Monday sit-at-home strikes affecting the economy.
Mr. Fidelis Wariboko, a representative from the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), also addressed the seminar, highlighting the organization’s commitment to assisting manufacturers and exporters in achieving compliance with the MANCAP scheme, ensuring that their products meet the required standards for international trade.
Following the seminar, Anambra State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu, expressed enthusiasm over the progress made, noting that NAFDAC’s swift certification process for SMEs in the food sector would facilitate a more favorable business environment. He also underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration with NEPC to train food manufacturers in Anambra, ensuring they adhere to global best practices regarding food safety and longevity.
