The Nigerian export market faces significant challenges, particularly in the agro-export sector, where third-party entities often exploit the country’s brand products for their own gain.
This was the submission made by Herbert Odika, Executive Director, Operations, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) Plc, during a recent presentation at the Airport Business Summit and Exhibition in Lagos.
Odika emphasized that a country’s brand is like a visa, and once it is taken to a foreign market, it becomes the brand of that country.
He cited the examples of Malaysia’s palm oil and Nigeria’s garri being processed into cassava in South America, highlighting the need for Nigeria to protect its brand products.
To achieve this, Odika advised that only the right people should be allowed to operate in specific areas, such as the agro-export sector.
He pointed out that a recent expo in the UK was dominated by retailers who lacked a deep understanding of the sector’s dynamics, leading to a lack of interest and declining markets.
Another challenge facing Nigerian exporters is the tendency to cut corners, which has led to the requirement of RM3 certifications.
Odika pointed out that, education is importance in the farming and aviation industries, as it provides insight into what to import and export, as well as procedures for creating a healthy agro-export chain.
The expert listed the key components of a successful agro-export chain, including planting, harvesting, processing, storing, and exporting, which must be enhanced by efficiency, optimized resources, revenue opportunities, strategic planning, education, technology, infrastructure, and regulatory reform.
Odika also highlighted other challenges affecting air cargo, including fluctuations in aviation fuel prices, regulatory bottlenecks, inadequate storage facilities, lack of advanced technology, customs delays, and grounding.
To address these challenges, he recommended export regulations, government support for airlines and handling companies, conscious policies, regular training for handling companies and security personnel, and the use of advanced technology.
For air cargo to be successful, Odika advised that government agencies should work closely with handlers, who in turn should regularly train their staff and innovate using advanced technology.
He also harped on the importance of providing a satisfactory customer experience, good warehousing and storage facilities, and proper storing methods.
Odika called on government agencies, airlines, and handling companies to work together to create a conducive environment for agro-export and drive the growth of Nigeria’s economy.
