NEPC Launches Export Mentorship Programme

By Mathew Ayoola

As part of measures to further promote the export of the nation’s Non-oil products, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, has launched the Export Mentorship Programme, EMP.

Speaking at the launch of the Programme in Abuja, the Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, Nonye Ayeni said the Export Mentorship Programme is a well thought out strategy where budding exporters are attached to established manufacturing exporters for an agreed period, for the purpose of learning the rudiments of non-oil export business.

She stated that the idea of EMP was borne out of the dire need to enhance the performance of Nigeria’s non-oil export sector through provision of a veritable platform for learning, unlearning, and relearning of new exporters from the established ones in a practical manner.

“As the Federal Government parastatal statutorily responsible for the development and promotion of non-oil exports, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has over the years worked proactively to fulfill her mandate through the execution of numerous programs and activities, all with the main aim of diversifying the nation’s economy – away from reliance on crude oil as the mono product of the economy” the NEPC Boss explained.

According to her, some of the programmes include, the Nigerian Competitiveness Project: “Go Global, Go for Certification Campaign”, which has facilitated the acquisition of international quality certifications for over 600 Micro Small, Medium Enterprises;

Youth for Export Programme and a deliberate capacity building programme to enhance requisite skills amongst the youth for wealth and job creation through export business among others.

“The Council’s decision to adopt the EMP strategy in raising new crop of skilled exporters is based on global statistics which shows that less than 10% of beginner exporters can successfully transit from prospective to performing exporters within their first 3 – 5 years of establishment and the reasons for failure to survive the early stage of business formation were largely attributed to inability of the beginners to master the complex terrain of export business” Nonye Ayeni stressed.

“For our revered Mentors, I salute your courage and immeasurable sacrifices because despite your busy schedules you accepted to groom these beginners on how to successfully conduct and conclude export transactions. Graciously taking your trainees through a period of knowledge sharing and experience gathering on all aspects of the non-oil export business, is a great feat. You have not only turned the trainees to certified supply chain players, but they will also stay away from white collar jobs and become contributors to food security index in Nigeria. Meanwhile, I pray that you will extend your magnanimity in accepting to train more young exporters in future when we call upon you” She said.

The Executive Director called for the support of Financial Institutions, Federation of Agricultural Commodity Association of Nigeria and other stakeholders towards ensuring the success of the Programme.

“I wish to commend the doggedness of the mentees who despite some challenges, remained committed to the course for which we are celebrating today. Please, remain steadfast and resolute in your non-oil export journey, because NEPC is willing and ready to assist you on this trajectory” Nonye Ayeni added.

Edited By Grace Namiji