Horticulture stakeholders in Nigeria are calling on the Federal Government to strengthen local production and supply chains to access the lucrative €43 billion EU market for edible vegetables, floriculture, and grapes.
The appeal was made during a webinar hosted by the EU-Nigeria Agribusiness Platform, titled “Market Insights: Opportunities in the EU Edible Vegetables, Floriculture and Grapes Import Markets.”
Participants at the high-level event included horticulture scientists, academics, government officials, and representatives from farmers’ associations across Nigeria and the EU.
Mr. Bonaventure Mwaghania, CEO of Cenacle Kenya Limited, cited Kenya’s remarkable success in the horticulture sector—employing over two million people and generating nearly one billion dollars in exports to the EU—and advised Nigeria to leverage its geographic proximity to European markets and favorable sea freight rates.
Frank Okafor, representing the EU delegation to Nigeria, reiterated the EU’s commitment to enhancing trade relations, while Aliyu Sheriff, Special Assistant to the President, stressed the importance of aligning Nigerian production with international standards to tap into high-value markets.
However, the Dutch Government’s support through the HortiNigeria project was also highlighted as a key factor in empowering local farmers.
By advocating for increased local production and improved supply chains, stakeholders aim to transform Nigeria’s horticulture sector, ensuring that the country can effectively participate in the growing global market and drive sustainable economic development.
