By Faridat Salifu
Nigeria’s organic and agroecology stakeholders are pushing for stronger policy support to expand market access and trade opportunities for chemical-free agricultural produce.
The call came during the 2025 National Organic and Agroecology Business Summit in Abuja, organised by the Organic and Agroecology Initiative of Nigeria (ORAIN).
The summit gathered farmers, researchers, agencies, and private sector players to explore ways to grow the organic market and enhance value chains for both local consumption and export.
Alhaji Abubakar Gotomo, ORAIN Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said the coalition seeks to strengthen organic farming practices to protect soils and the environment while creating economic opportunities for farmers.
He highlighted the need for policies that encourage investment in organic production and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.
Mr William Ekpe, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasised integrating organic agriculture into national programmes to improve productivity, food safety, and trade potential.
He highlighted initiatives to strengthen certification, quality assurance, and stakeholder capacity as crucial to boosting consumer confidence and expanding exports.
Prof. Olugbenga Adeoluwa, ORAIN National Coordinator, said the 2025 summit focused on scaling market platforms for organic produce, supporting both local sales and international trade.
He noted that Nigeria’s National Organic and Agroecology Standards, launched in 2024, provide guidance for certified production, helping farmers access export markets and reduce rejections caused by poor practices.
The summit also showcased innovations in organic farming, community-level storage solutions, and value-added products, highlighting opportunities for agripreneurs to develop sustainable businesses while meeting growing demand for safe, eco-friendly food.