ibironkeeniola 
The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment in collaboration with the Export Commodity Coordinating Committee (ECCC) has launched ten commodity associations in a bid to meet Nigeria’s food security target.
The event which held on Monday in Abuja introduced the ten commodity associations as; National Neem Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, National Coconut Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Maize Growers Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, National Sheep and Goat Development Association of Nigeria, Sunflower Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Poultry Association of Nigeria, National Tomato Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hibiscus Farmers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, National Mushroom Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria and Mango Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria.
The National Secretary of the Federation of Agricultural Commodity Associations of Nigeria (FACAN), Alhaji Bello Nuhu Dogonyaji who represented FACAN’s Chairman at the event urged the government to support the new commodity associations in their diversification quest. He also thanked and encouraged the Mushroom Association which within a year of its establishment has elected its Executive Officers and kicked off operations.
While delivering his keynote address, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Edet Sunday Akpan stated that the position of the Federal Government as it relates to the new associations is to promote standardized produce and improve market access. “This will help to grow our domestic economy and create jobs”, He added.
Representative of the Indian High Commission on his part hinted that India/Nigeria Bilateral trade stands at 41 billion USD. With huge market opportunities for NEEM, Coconut, and Maize, he expressed India’s willingness to trade with these associations.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA