Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, has said the government is set to tackle some of challenges faced by the shea butter industry in Nigeria.
She listed the challenges to include indiscriminate falling of shea trees, lack of standard processing facilities and lack of awareness on best practices, among others.
The minister, who was represented by the Director, Industrial Inspectorate Department, Mrs Aniete Umuessien, revealed that relevant government agencies are making concerted efforts to maximize the potentials of the shea butter sector in Nigeria, thereby increasing export volume and global supply of shea products.
“The administration is committed to building sound regulatory environment and enhancing support structures available for women and youths in business.
“Let me also use this opportunity to encourage all stakeholders here present today to take advantage of the policies of government on the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
“This will boost competitiveness of our products, attract and retain investments, thereby generating more employment opportunities,” she added.
In his remark, the Niger State Commissioner for Industry Trade Investment and Private Sector, Amin Takuma, said the state will continue to drive the development of shea value chain.
“The Niger State Commodities and Export Promotion Agency, an agency under the supervision of my ministry, will continue to serve as a dedicated platform to drive the development of shea value chain, facilitate market linkages and support smallholder farmers and processes across the state and the country in general.
“Our state is deeply committed to the development of values value chain, recognising it its immense potential to contribute to the economic growth, empower rural communities and promote environmental sustainability.” He added.
@Vanguard.