By Edeniyere Abraham Osose
The Edo State Government, through the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) in collaboration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), has hosted a One-Day Technical Session on Developing Strategic Measures for SMEs and Clusters through Quality Packaging for Export as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s non-oil export sector.
The programme, held in Benin City on Tuesday, brought together exporters, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), industry stakeholders and development partners to build capacity in packaging, branding and export competitiveness.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of NEPC, Mrs Noye Ayeni, represented by the Edo State Coordinator, Mr Andrew Okhiulu, said the training aligned with the Council’s Operation Double Your Export initiative aimed at improving export readiness and increasing Nigeria’s non-oil export earnings.
He noted that in today’s highly competitive global marketplace, quality packaging and branding are essential for market access, value addition and global acceptance.
According to him, the session was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge on international packaging and labelling standards, product presentation and compliance requirements necessary to access foreign markets.
He added that the Edo Exporters’ Cluster initiative remains a strategic platform for fostering collaboration, improving product quality and expanding market access for Edo-based exporters.
Mr Okhiulu commended ESIPO and the Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment for their continued support to exporters, assuring participants of NEPC’s commitment to providing technical assistance, market intelligence, training and access to trade facilitation platforms.
Also speaking, Mrs Anthonia Azeke, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment, emphasised that product quality alone is no longer sufficient for success in international trade. She stated that poor packaging, labelling and branding remain major barriers to export for many otherwise viable businesses.
She described the programme as timely and relevant, noting that it would enable MSMEs to acquire the skills required to meet international standards, enhance product appeal and build strong brands capable of competing in global markets.
She reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote MSME growth, job creation and economic diversification.
In his remarks, Mr Akhigbe Ose Abraham, Team Lead, Business Development Support and Export at ESIPO, who represented the Managing Director, Hon. Amen Odigie, highlighted packaging as a critical element of value addition and export competitiveness.
He described packaging as the “silent salesman” that determines a product’s acceptance in international markets and stressed that Edo State must transition from exporting raw materials to exporting finished, well-branded and securely packaged products.
The programme concluded on a high note with a major highlight: an exhibition showcasing the diverse products of participants, providing attendees with a firsthand look at Edo-made goods ready for local and international markets.
Stakeholders expressed confidence that the insights gained, combined with practical application, would strengthen Edo State’s export capacity, create jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth.
