The Lagos State Office of Nigeria Agribusiness and Agro-Industry Development Initiative (NAADI) is developing the industrialised and commercialised agricultural sector, thus joining Kano, Sokoto, Akwa Ibom, Imo, Bauchi, Benue and Delta states.
Permanent Secretary in Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nura Rimi, said the initiative is to ‘develop the non-oil sector by boosting production, encouraging value addition and export for increased foreign exchange, wealth and job creation’.
He added: “This will enhance manufacturing process to transform commodities to value-added state. The intention is to unlock the latent value in commodities for high premium and satisfaction of consumers.
“The initiative is focused on four components – Food and Beverages, Textile and Garments, Leather and leather products as well as Products Inspection Services – to ensure quality and standard. It also seeks to develop agro-industry by encouraging backward integration, import substitution, local patronage, industrial partnerships for growing agribusiness, such as low cost of raw materials, low cost of production and reduced costs of doing business.
“As policy makers, we will create the enabling environment, facilitate linkages among stakeholders and ensure the required framework for sustainability of NAADI.
“We are interested because the programme will stimulate equity investment in critical sectors driving trade and export; diversify agro-industrial base; reduce dependence on imports; support youths and women in export supply chains, as well as raise exports of value-added goods and services.”
Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, described the initiative as ‘a testament to the government’s dedication to converting agricultural prowess into high-value products…’’
