Nigeria’s agriculture sector has been lauded for its part in pulling the nation’s economy out of recession.
This commendation was given by African and European diplomats at the ongoing 4th International Agro-Food Fair, taking place in Lagos.
A representative of the EU trade delegation, Mr Ibi Ikpoki said noted the sector has played a good part in restoring the Nation’s ailing economy.
“The Nigerian agricultural sector has also played a crucial role in job creation, women and youth empowerment and contributed immensely to poverty alleviation.
“Therefore, I am delighted today that agriculture in Nigeria is gradually evolving from being seen as a mere activity to a business, moving primary production to value addition.
“This is why this annual exhibition continues to be relevant for the development of the agri-business and packaging sectors among others,” Mr Ikpoki said.
While citing figures from EU Trade Desk, he congratulated the Nigerian government for improving the business environment in the country as trade in Nigeria has increased by 27 percent from 19.9 billion Euros in 2006 to 25.3 billion Euros in 2017.
“This trade increase mirrors the improvements in Nigeria’s external trade as a country that exited recession in 2017.
“Permit me to use this opportunity to congratulate the Nigerian authorities for some notable feats experienced in 2017, including the improvement in ease of doing business.
“On ranking, we saw Nigeria jump 24 places from 169 to 145 and also emerged one of the tops most improved 10 countries.
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