The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) and the Nigeria Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), have agreed to strengthen ties in the areas of trade facilitation and safeguarding the country’s agricultural economy.
This comes after a high-level meeting in Abuja between Mr Bamanga Usman Jada, the Managing Director of the OGFZA, and Dr Godwin Sunday Audu, the Acting Comptroller General of the NAQS, in an attempt to improve cooperation between the two organizations.
Dr Audu reaffirmed NAQS’s commitment to preserving global phytosanitary standards, increasing commerce, and safeguarding Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He emphasized that NAQS stands ready to support exporters in meeting these standards, facilitating a seamless process for those who adhere to regulatory requirements.
“In our pursuit of economic growth and agricultural prosperity, NAQS remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting trade while ensuring the integrity of our agricultural sector,” Dr Audu said.
“We understand the importance of facilitating exports and imports, and we are committed to providing exporters and importers with the necessary guidance and support to navigate regulatory processes effectively.”
Dr Audu also highlighted NAQS’s willingness to work closely with OGFZA, offering guidance and information on export and import procedures.
He noted that exporters are required to pay the user fee as a token for the services NAQS renders.
Dr Audu expressed gratitude for the donation of office space to NAQS at Onne Seaport within the OGFZA complex in Port Harcourt, stressing that it was a demonstration of OGFZA’s commitment to supporting NAQS’s operations.
Speaking at the meeting Mr. Bamanga Usman Jada emphasized the need for collaboration between NAQS and OGFZA to protect Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
