In a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s export market and leverage the potential of the diaspora, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have teamed up to create the Diaspora Export Market Place (DEMP). This was announced during a strategic meeting held at NiDCOM Headquarters in Abuja, where both organisations expressed their commitment to expanding Nigeria’s export reach, particularly in the non-oil sector.
Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, highlighted the significance of the agricultural sector, which contributes 25 percent to Nigeria’s GDP and employs over 70 percent of the population. She emphasized that NEPC’s mandate to promote and coordinate export activities aligns with various initiatives like “Seeing Beyond Borders” and “Nigerian Heritage City.” These initiatives aim to promote the growth of Nigeria’s non-oil exports by engaging more stakeholders, especially those in the diaspora.
Mrs. Ayeni further explained that the Diaspora Export Market Place would provide valuable insights into market opportunities for Nigerians living abroad, allowing them to understand how they can contribute to the export economy back home. “This partnership with NiDCOM will open up channels for greater diaspora involvement in Nigeria’s global export market,” she stated.
In her remarks, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of NiDCOM, applauded NEPC’s efforts to bring the diaspora into Nigeria’s export conversation. She acknowledged the contribution of Nigerians in the diaspora who are already actively producing and exporting goods from Nigeria to various countries. Dabiri-Erewa also urged Nigerians to diversify their export markets, particularly in the textile industry, rather than relying solely on imports from Asia.
Dabiri-Erewa advocated for the establishment of Nigerian networks in host countries, noting that regulatory challenges should not deter potential exporters. She emphasized that these networks could act as support systems for Nigerians navigating international markets.
The collaboration between NEPC and NiDCOM is expected to gain further momentum at the upcoming 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS), scheduled for November 5–7, 2024. Mrs. Ayeni expressed optimism that NEPC’s participation in the event would open up new opportunities for collaboration and boost the non-oil export sector.
The strategic partnership between NEPC and NiDCOM is seen as a crucial step in diversifying Nigeria’s export economy, particularly by harnessing the skills, resources, and networks of the Nigerian diaspora.
