CBN, Stakeholders Urge Producers to Boost Export Standards
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), alongside financial and business sector stakeholders, has urged Nigerian producers to improve and standardize their products to boost export potential.
This was discussed during a town hall meeting on Monday at Tahir Guest Palace in Kano, organized by the Bankers’ Committee of the CBN under the theme: “Strengthening the Naira through Export Diversification.”
Professor Aliyu Dahiru Muhammad, Secretary General of the Association of Zakat and Waqf Operators in Nigeria (AZAWON) and professor of Islamic Economics and Finance at Bayero University, Kano, emphasized the need for better packaging and presentation among exporters.
“We are blessed with abundant homemade commodities—like Wainar Masa in Bauchi, and many others. But you must package, formalize, and modernize these goods to appeal to international buyers,” he said. “Unfortunately, people today tend to avoid modernization at all costs.”
He noted that poor packaging and lack of branding contribute to product rejection in international markets. He said aligning with global standards is necessary.
“Don’t be surprised. With the rise of technology, young people now have the means to market their goods online and earn a living,” Prof. Dahiru said.
He mentioned the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), noting its role in supporting non-oil exports, but said more needs to be done.
“I commend NEPC’s efforts in promoting export activities in the country, and I hope they continue to improve,” he said.
Prof. Dahiru also suggested strengthening the Nigeria Export Academy to better support exporters.
Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, Dr. Aliyu Danmaraya, Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, commented on the meeting’s purpose.
“This collaborative platform is exactly what we need today. I believe it will help build a prosperous future for both our state and the nation,” he stated.
Dr. Danmaraya also described the role of banks. “Banks are the lifeblood of our economy. They provide the financial resources necessary for businesses to thrive, for individuals to invest, and for communities to grow,” he said.
Speaking for the CBN, Alhaji Umar Ibrahim Biu, the Kano Branch Controller, represented by Mr. Sulaiman, said the town hall aimed to provide information relevant to export readiness.
“This meeting is aimed at educating and sensitizing major players in the sector about ongoing developments that can impact the nation’s economic and trade performance,” he explained.
Report by Rabi’u Murtala Hamza
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