The Cross River State Government has kicked off a bold initiative to strengthen its non-oil export sector, aiming to diversify the state’s economy, boost foreign exchange earnings, and empower local producers.
In partnership with the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the state held a two-day workshop in Calabar titled “Product Development and Export Readiness for Registered and Prospective Exporters in Cross River State.” The event brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to access international markets.
Speaking at the workshop on Tuesday, State Commissioner for Commerce, Abigail Duke Orok, stressed the importance of translating training into action by encouraging the actual export of agricultural commodities like bitter kola, ogbono, plantain, palm oil, and beniseed.
“Cross River is richly endowed with agricultural resources, yet the trade of these commodities is still largely controlled by outsiders,” Dr. Orok said. “We must empower our people to process, package, and export these goods to earn foreign exchange.”
She also revealed that the state is making progress in coffee and tea cultivation, with new nurseries established in the central and northern districts of the state. To streamline the export process, Cross River has begun collaborating with experts, including Dr. Ofon Udofia of the Exports Institute in Rivers State.
NEPC, Experts Rally Behind Export Readiness
The NEPC State Coordinator reaffirmed the Council’s support, emphasizing the importance of product development and quality standards in making Cross River’s agricultural products competitive globally.
“Our goal is to ensure Cross River’s goods are export-ready and able to stand alongside global competitors,” the Coordinator said.
During the technical sessions, AniIton of Bright Flow Logistics outlined the essential compliance and logistics requirements for export, from documentation to international shipping standards. Meanwhile, Dr. Udofia provided a live demonstration on product packaging and export readiness, offering practical insights into how exporters can meet global expectations.
Women Entrepreneurs and Access to Global Funds
The second day of the workshop spotlighted women-led businesses, focusing on how they can take advantage of export opportunities. Special emphasis was placed on accessing international funding, including a $5 million grant from the World Trade Organization (WTO) aimed at supporting women in trade.
The event marks a pivotal step in Cross River’s broader strategy to reduce its dependence on oil revenue by unlocking the economic potential of its agricultural value chain. Participants left with renewed motivation and actionable knowledge to start or scale their export operations.
