ibironkeeniola 
The Federal Government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee to ensure the standardisation of agricultural commodities for export.
The Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee on Zero Reject of Agricultural Commodities and Produce/Non-Oil Exports from Nigeria will also ensure the acceptance of the county’s agricultural export in the international community.
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Sabo Nanono noted that the move would ensure the standardisation of Nigeria’s agricultural produce.
According to him, it has become imperative for Nigeria to avoid any embarrassment occasioned by the rejection of its agricultural produce, in the international community.
He also expressed concern over the recent rejection of Nigerian beans, by the European Union.
He noted that the situation, apart from posing a serious health threat, could hamper the attainment of a food secure nation.
This, he said, should be a source of concern to Nigerians, particularly the ministries, departments and agencies charged with the responsibility of producing and certifying produce for export.
“Our desire for standard agricultural products and non-oil exports means there will be vigorous pursuit of investment in quality control and standardisation.
“As we pursue this, my ministry, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is committed not only to food security, but wholesome foods of high quality acceptable for local consumption and export”, he averred.
Harping on the importance of agricultural export promotion, Nanono enjoined all industry key players to collaborate amongst themselves, to achieve standardisation of agricultural produce in Nigeria.
He added, “The areas of handling our fresh produce, cold storage and post-harvest loss management are also major concerns if we must improve our export”.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA