The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, NAQS, and the Nigeria Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, OGFZA, have agreed to collaborate in areas of trade Facilitation and safeguarding the agricultural economy of the Country.
The partnership was disclosed at a meeting between the Acting Comptroller General of Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, NAQS, Dr Godwin Audu and the Managing Director of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, OGFZAa, Mr. Bamanga Jada and his team held at NAQS Headquarters in Abuja as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the two agencies.
Speaking During the meeting Dr. Audu reiterated NAQS’s commitment to promoting trade and protecting Nigeria’s agricultural economy while upholding global phytosanitary standards.
According to him, NAQS stands ready to support exporters in meeting these standards, facilitating a seamless process for those who adhere to regulatory requirements.
“In our pursuit of economic growth and agricultural prosperity, NAQS remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting trade while ensuring the integrity of our agricultural sector,” Dr Audu said.
“We understand the importance of facilitating exports and imports, and we are committed to providing exporters and importers with the necessary guidance and support to navigate regulatory processes effectively.”
Dr. Audu also highlighted NAQS’s willingness to work closely with OGFZA, offering guidance and information on export and import procedures, while noting that exporters are required to pay the user fee as a token for the services NAQS renders.
Dr. Audu expressed gratitude for the donation of an office space to NAQS at Onne Seaport within the OGFZA complex in Port Harcourt, stressing that it was a demonstration of OGFZA’s commitment to supporting NAQS’s operations.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Bamanga Usman Jada emphasized the need for collaboration between both agencies to protect Nigeria’s agricultural economy.
He commended NAQS for its commitment to promoting trade while maintaining stringent standards, stressing the importance of a harmonious relationship between the two regulatory agencies.
Shakirat Sadiq
