Enugu Positions for Export Boom as NEPC South-East Coordinator Begins Strategic Engagement

By Lucy Harry-Enwu

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Enugu State is strengthening its drive to become a major non-oil export hub as the newly appointed South-East Regional Coordinator of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Mustapha Umar Faruk, has commenced strategic engagement with the state government aimed at deepening collaboration on export promotion and economic development.

As part of his familiarisation tour, Mr. Faruk paid a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Ministry of Trade, Investment and Industry, where he was received by the Honourable Commissioner, Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ifeanyi Onah. The meeting focused on strengthening partnerships in export development, certification of exporters, and expanding market access for locally manufactured products.

Welcoming the NEPC Regional Coordinator, Dr. Ogbu-Nwobodo reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s administration to creating an enabling business environment where innovative ideas are transformed into sustainable enterprises through investor-friendly policies and strategic reforms.

The Commissioner noted that the state government has implemented several transformative initiatives aimed at attracting investments, expanding industrial development, and promoting the production of goods that meet international export standards.

He highlighted Enugu’s vast non-oil export potential, citing products such as the renowned yellow pepper popularly known as Ose Nsukka, palm oil, cassava, rice, solid minerals, and other agricultural commodities capable of competing favourably in global markets.

Dr. Ogbu-Nwobodo urged the new Regional Coordinator to prioritise the certification of exporters across the state, stressing that doing so would strengthen Enugu’s exporter database, enhance the credibility of locally produced goods, and encourage more investors to participate in the export value chain.

He also drew attention to key infrastructure projects being executed by the state government, including the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the establishment of Enugu Air, describing them as strategic interventions designed to improve the movement of exportable products, reduce logistical bottlenecks, and provide easier access to international markets.

Responding, Mr. Faruk expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him and pledged to work closely with the Enugu State Government in advancing export promotion across the South-East region.

He assured the Ministry of the Council’s commitment to facilitating the certification of more qualified companies, thereby enhancing the region’s export competitiveness and unlocking greater opportunities for businesses.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the State Committee on Export Promotion, Mr. Ifeanyi Onah, congratulated Mr. Faruk on his appointment and assured him of the committee’s full support in achieving their shared objective of expanding Enugu’s export footprint and driving sustainable economic growth through increased non-oil exports.