By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) and a delegation from the Chinese Embassy met in Abuja on Wednesday to strengthen agricultural trade, improve quarantine cooperation, and expand Nigeria’s export access to China. The meeting, led by NAQS Comptroller General Dr. Vincent Isegbe and China’s Counselor Minister Wang Yingji, focused on finalising a key export protocol, enhancing sanitary standards, and creating more opportunities for Nigerian exporters. The collaboration supports Nigeria’s non-oil export drive and the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda.
NAQS, China Advance Agricultural Trade Cooperation
The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), Dr. Vincent Isegbe, received a high-level delegation from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Counselor Minister Wang Yingji led the delegation. Other members included Counselor Sun Xirekun, Second Secretary He Zhengbiao, and Second Secretary Duan Yun.
Both sides discussed practical measures to deepen bilateral cooperation in agricultural trade, strengthen quarantine systems, and improve market access for Nigerian agricultural products.
Wild Aquatic Export Protocol Nears Completion
A key highlight of the meeting was the ongoing process to sign the Protocol on the Export of Wild Aquatic Resources from Nigeria to China.
Dr. Isegbe described the agreement as a strategic step toward expanding Nigeria’s export market for aquatic products.
Once signed, the protocol will boost the volume and value of Nigerian aquatic exports to China.
It will also create new opportunities for exporters, strengthen the fisheries value chain, generate jobs, and increase non-oil export earnings.
Focus on International Standards and Market Access
Both delegations explored ways to improve the export of Nigerian agricultural commodities to the Chinese market.
They discussed compliance with international sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, stronger quarantine cooperation, and technical requirements for accessing China’s large consumer market.
Furthermore, they agreed that closer collaboration would help Nigerian exporters meet China’s import regulations more efficiently.
NAQS Reaffirms Commitment to Safe Agricultural Trade
Dr. Isegbe reaffirmed NAQS’ commitment to working closely with Chinese authorities and stakeholders.
He said the partnership would promote safe agricultural trade while protecting plant and animal health.
He also stressed the importance of helping Nigerian exporters meet destination-country requirements.
According to him, expanding market access aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification strategy, increased non-oil exports, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Chinese Delegation Commends NAQS
The Chinese delegation praised NAQS for its consistent efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural biosecurity system.
The delegation also acknowledged the agency’s commitment to expanding export opportunities and improving agricultural trade relations between both countries.
Both parties expressed optimism that stronger collaboration would accelerate bilateral trade and unlock greater opportunities for Nigerian agricultural exporters.
