The Lagos State Government has tasked its Export Promotion Committee with intensifying efforts to establish the state as the premier hub for non-oil exports in Nigeria and across Africa.
The directive was issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment (MCCTI), Olugbemiga Aina, at a recent committee meeting.
Aina stressed the urgency of diversifying the state’s economy by leveraging its strengths in products like coconut, fisheries, and vegetables.
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He cited a major milestone achieved in December 2024 with the commencement of coconut exports from Lagos to Dubai, proving that local products can compete internationally when value and standards are maintained.
“We must acknowledge that much more remains to be done to fully prepare our entrepreneurs for global competition,” Aina stated, underscoring the need for bolder, actionable steps.
To support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the Lagos State Government pledged continued assistance through: providing industrial workplaces at subsidised rates, boosting capacity building, research, and innovation and expanding access to finance via the ₦10 billion Lagos State Access to Finance through Cooperatives (LASMECO) programme
Aina emphasised that increased exports would lead to economic diversification, more sustainable job creation, and a stronger economy resilient to external shocks.
He reaffirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to an export-enabling environment through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Development Agenda.
“Exports are not just about goods; they are about Lagos telling its story to the world,” he said.
In response, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), represented by Bolanle Emmanuel, revealed plans to conduct joint training sessions to increase the volume and variety of exportable Nigerian goods.
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Additionally, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mary Ayim stressed the need for timely communication regarding the movement of export goods to prevent undue delays and spoilage at checkpoints.
The committee members unanimously agreed to meet quarterly to maintain consistent dialogue.
