The United States Mission’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) office in Lagos, in collaboration with the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) Kaduna Chapter and the Nigeria Agribusiness Group (NABG), has hosted a roundtable on innovative approaches to agricultural trade aimed at boosting economic growth and food security.
The event, held in Abuja, brought together agricultural trade policy advisors, legislators’ representatives, agribusiness leaders, researchers, regulators, and U.S. agricultural trade associations. Discussions centered on the impacts of Nigeria’s trade restrictions on food prices, local production, and investment, as well as strategies to reform policies and strengthen agribusiness competitiveness.
A highlight of the roundtable was the presentation of Nigerian-led research conducted in consultation with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). The study found that agricultural trade restrictions have contributed to higher food prices, encouraged informal cross-border trade that reduces government revenues and oversight, and created regulatory uncertainty for agribusinesses.
Key recommendations from the research included adjusting trade restrictions to stabilize food prices, improve access to raw materials, and support value-added processing. Experts also showcased global case studies such as tariff-rate quotas and private-sector-led export trading company mechanisms that transparently distribute the benefits of import quotas for scientific, educational, or promotional purposes.
Chairman of NACC Kaduna Chapter, Matthew Obogbaimhe, stressed the need for innovation and investment over restrictive policies. “Revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector requires more than trade restrictions; it demands innovation, sustainable practices, and infrastructure,” he said.
Agricultural Counselor for FAS Lagos, Christopher Bielecki, described the roundtable as a platform to share ideas and develop solutions. “By fostering dialogue, we discussed innovative policies that can strengthen agricultural trade, reduce costs for agribusinesses and consumers, and drive prosperity for both American and Nigerian farmers,” he stated.
Similarly, NABG Director General, Jafar Umar, commended the initiative as timely and relevant to national efforts at improving trade and food security. “We are happy to partner with FAS on this important initiative and look forward to deepening our collaboration through more impactful engagements,” he said.
The U.S. Mission reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Nigerian government and agribusiness stakeholders to translate the roundtable’s recommendations into action, strengthen trade, attract investment, and enhance food security.
