The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting private enterprise as he lauded the export of 11 containers of agricultural commodities to China.
The commodities, consisting of Sesame Seeds, Cassia Tora, and Mica, were shipped through the Nigerian Exporters Hub (NEXHUB), an initiative aimed at promoting non-oil exports from Nigeria.
Speaking at the event on Monday in Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of value-added exports and encouraged Nigerian businesses to explore opportunities beyond raw materials.
“By processing our agricultural products locally, we can create more jobs, increase our export earnings, and enhance our economic competitiveness,” he said.
The governor was represented by Mrs Titilayo Adeshina, Director of Commerce, Director of Commerce, Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the economic significance of the exported commodities and their potential to foster international trade and strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.
The event was organised by NEXHUB in collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), to unveil the first batch of export from Lagos to China.
NEXHUB is an offshoot of the Nigerian Export Trade House China and far-East region.
He commended NEXHUB for its efforts in facilitating exports and creating opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
The governor, therefore, advised NEXHUB to continue innovating, expanding, and exploring new market, while calling on other Nigerian businesses to emulate the firm.
Sanwo-Olu said that the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Development Agenda, particularly the Fourth Pillar – Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy, would continue to provide a conducive environment for the private sector to continue to thrive.
“Today’s event is proof that we can build resilient, inclusive and prosperous agricultural and solid mineral sectors that will serve as catalyst for national development.
“In conclusion, I declare these containers officially unveiled, symbolising Nigeria’s readiness to engage with the global market.
“I wish Nigerian Exporters Hub continued success and look forward to witnessing more milestones in Nigeria’s export journey,” he said.
Dr Victor Ayemere, Chairman of NEXHUB, explained that the firm was established to simplify the export process and empower Nigerians to participate in exportation, generating foreign exchange.
“We want every household to benefit from foreign exchange earnings.
“We must all work together to improve Nigeria’s economy, rather than leaving the burden solely on the government,” Ayemere said.
He noted that many Nigerians were unaware of export opportunities created by the federal government, adding that was why NEXHUB offers training programmes and practical guidance for exporters.
He said that the firm assists its subscribers to get the market, advise them on what, when and who to export to through the Nigerian Export Trade House in China.
He added that 10 containers were initially scheduled for export but an additional container was added, making it a total of 11 to be exported in the first batch.
