KOGI GOVERNMENT, NEPC PROMOTE MELON PRODUCTION AND MARKET ACCESS FOR EXPORT GROWTH

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‎In line with the State Government’s drive to strengthen non-oil exports and enhance agricultural value chains, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), in collaboration with the Kogi State Ministry of Commerce & Industry, held a one-day Capacity Building Workshop on Promoting Melon Production, Processing, and Market Access in Lokoja.
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‎The workshop aimed to equip farmers, processors, and exporters with practical knowledge to improve melon production and expand access to both local and international markets.
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‎In his keynote address, the Hon. Commissioner for Commerce & Industry, Hon. Muhammed Muktar Shuaibu, commended NEPC for its consistent efforts in empowering farmers and processors, describing the workshop as a vital step in repositioning melon as one of Kogi State’s key export commodities.
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‎The Commissioner who was ably represented by the Director, Admin, Mr Ejeh Michael, emphasized that beyond training, farmers also require empowerment and access to resources for sustainable growth.
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‎“We must continue to move beyond subsistence farming to a commercial level that promotes export readiness and supports the vision of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for economic diversification,” he stated
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‎Earlier delivering the welcome address, the State Coordinator, NEPC, Mr. Usenide Aniekpeno, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to inclusiveness and value chain development, explaining that the workshop was designed to strengthen the melon subsector through improved agricultural practices, processing standards, and market linkages.
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‎“Melon, fondly called Egusi, is one of Nigeria’s high-value commodities with vast export potential capable of creating jobs and generating income, particularly for women and youth in rural communities,” he stated.
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‎Moving unto the technical session, the Director of Agricultural Services, Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, Mr. Kunle Agbana, spoke extensively on quality seed selection, mechanization, post-harvest handling, and international standards for export.
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‎Agbana explained that adherence to global best practices and value addition through proper processing and packaging would enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness.
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‎Further more, he added that when farmers adopt improved technologies and maintain quality standards, their products can compete favorably in regional and international markets.
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‎Representatives from the Technology Incubation Centre also commended NEPC for organizing the program, highlighting the need for increased collaboration to improve product development, packaging, and value addition for export readiness.
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‎In his closing remarks, the Chairman, Melon Association, Kogi State, Alhaji Suleiman, appreciated NEPC, the Ministry, and all participants for their dedication to developing the melon value chain and assured that future engagements would witness greater participation from more farmers.
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‎Taiye Bayode
‎Information Officer
‎Ministry of Commerce & Industry