The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) convened a high level stakeholders’ meeting with fruit importers at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja-Lagos, with the Comptroller General of NAQS, Dr Vincent Isegbe, in attendance, alongside critical stakeholders and sister regulatory agencies. The meeting was aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting regulatory compliance, and ensuring safe and sustainable fruit importation into Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Comptroller General emphasized that Nigeria cannot continue to be a dumping ground, stressing that the nation must not engage in actions that amount to self-sabotage or the creation of unnecessary barriers to legitimate trade. He reaffirmed NAQS’ statutory mandate as the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and underscored the Service’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s agricultural economy while facilitating compliant trade.
The Customs Area Comptroller, Murtala Mohammed International Airport Command, CC GA Otunla who represented the CGC, highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring seamless trade facilitation, border security, and compliance with import regulations. He reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s support for NAQS in enforcing standards that protect national interests.
Similarly, Mr. Omanayin Femi, Assistant Director, Operations, who represented Barrister Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting NAQS operations. He emphasized the critical role of NAQS activities in maintaining sanitary and phytosanitary standards and enhancing Nigeria’s credibility in international trade. Also in attendance is Mr Onari- Brown Sovic, who represented Dr Abubakar Dantsoho the Managing Director of Nigerian Port Authority.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a communiqué was signed between the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and the Association of Fruit Importers in Nigeria, signifying a shared commitment to compliance, collaboration, and the promotion of safe fruit importation practices.
Signed:
DSQ. R. Usman
O/C Media
