NAQS Attends PEBEC Launch of Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) Framework

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) participated in the launch of the Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) Framework, unveiled by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) at the State House Conference Centre during the Second Existing Foreign Direct Investors’ Roundtable and Regulators’ Forum.

The framework aims to drive evidence-based policy decisions and enhance regulatory efficiency across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). It establishes clear principles, methodologies, and processes for assessing the impact of both proposed and existing regulations.

The event provided a platform for collaboration among regulatory agencies to facilitate the ease of doing business in Nigeria. Key stakeholders in attendance included the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, State Governors, and Heads of Agencies.

Princess Zahrah Audu, Director-General of PEBEC, emphasized the need for Nigeria to remain competitive and investment-friendly. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, highlighted that over 70% of American businesses view recent government reforms positively, reflecting growing investor confidence in the country.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State showcased Benue’s vast agricultural potential, encouraging investors to explore opportunities in livestock farming, soybean production, grains, and agro-processing. He stated, “Benue has fertile land, vast water resources, and a favorable climate, making it ideal for agribusiness investments. We are looking for partners to invest in crops such as soybeans, livestock farming, grains, and agro-processing.”

As a key regulatory agency, NAQS remains committed to its mandate of facilitating trade while ensuring Nigeria’s agricultural sector adheres to global standards. The agency will continue to support policies that promote economic diversification, foster sustainable investments, and contribute to national development.