The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service and the Nigeria Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, which are both federal agencies, have decided to work together to promote trade and protect the country's agricultural sector and export activities.
On Sunday in Abuja, collaborators disclosed that the agreement was a result of a high-level discussion between the interim Comptroller-General of NAQS, Dr. Godwin Audu, and the Managing Director of OGFZA, Bamanga Jada.
In a statement released by the agency, Audu conveyed at the meeting that the NAQS is dedicated to enhancing trade and shielding Nigeria's agricultural sector, all while maintaining international plant health regulations.
He noted that the National Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) is prepared to assist exporters in complying with the necessary criteria, ensuring a smooth procedure for those who follow the regulatory guidelines.
Audu stated, "As we strive for economic development and agricultural flourishing, the National Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) is dedicated to fostering trade alongside maintaining the wholesomeness of our agricultural industry."
"We recognize the significance of promoting the export and import industry, and we are dedicated to offering the essential assistance and direction to exporters and importers to efficiently handle and comply with the regulatory procedures."
Audu emphasized the National Agricultural Quarantine Service's readiness to collaborate with the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, providing advice and details on the processes for importing and exporting goods, and mentioned that exporters are obligated to pay a nominal charge for the services provided by the NAQS.
He expressed gratitude to Onne Seaport for providing NAQS with office space at OGFZA complex, that this act showed OGFZA's dedication to assisting the functions of his agency.
Jada further explained the importance of cooperation between the National Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) in safeguarding Nigeria's agricultural sector and commended the National Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) for its dedication to fostering commerce while adhering to strict regulations.
In a connected update, NAQS has revealed the formation of a dedicated operations and enforcement division within the organization. This new department aims to reduce unwarranted takeovers and to apply enforcement actions wisely, particularly concerning seizures within the agricultural sector.
