The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has introduced a youth-for-export program aimed at involving young Nigerians in the global export culture from an early age. Ezra Yakusak, the Executive Director/CEO of NEPC, highlighted that Nigeria possesses a pool of hard-working and talented youth, and the program seeks to tap into their untapped export potential.
Speaking at the launch event in Abuja, Yakusak emphasized the importance of channeling the skills and energy of Nigerian youth towards export activities, which could lead to economic growth and opportunities. He mentioned that while other countries have successfully utilized their youth population for export activities, Nigeria has yet to fully harness this potential.
Yakusak mentioned that the youth-for-export program is designed to empower young Nigerians by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to engage in export activities. The program aims to address export skill gaps, quality standards, procedural issues, documentation, and the technicalities involved in international trade.
The initiative is a Public-Private Partnership involving Zeenab Foods Limited, which operates the Nigerian Export Trade House in China. An MoU has been signed with Zeenab Foods, with NEPC responsible for capacity building of the youth, and Zeenab Foods offering mentorship and market access for young entrepreneurs participating in the program. This collaborative effort is expected to enhance the export capabilities of Nigerian youths and contribute to the growth of the country’s export sector.