Nigeria seeks improved seed export through OECD membership

Nigeria's government is embarking on a strategic move to explore the potential benefits of full membership in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) with a particular focus on boosting seed exports. Kola Masha, an expert in the agricultural sector, recently shared insights on the implications of this significant development in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. Masha highlighted the transformative impact that OECD membership could have on Nigeria's agricultural landscape, specifically emphasizing the potential attraction of major seed companies to establish production operations within the country. This strategic move could position Nigeria as a regional hub for seed production, enabling companies to not only cater to the domestic market but also leverage the opportunity to serve neighboring countries in the region. Key Points: 1. Boosting Economic Potential: By becoming an OECD member, Nigeria aims to incentivize seed companies to invest in establishing production facilities within the country, thereby expanding their market reach beyond Nigeria and tapping into the regional market. This strategic shift could enhance the economic viability of seed companies and drive growth in the agricultural sector. 2. Enhancing Regulatory Capacity: The journey to OECD membership involves meeting rigorous standards and requirements, which can ultimately strengthen Nigeria's regulatory framework for agricultural production. While challenges may arise in the process, Masha emphasized that navigating these hurdles could lead to the implementation of effective structures that support local production and set the stage for future growth. 3. Investing in Research and Development: One of the key outcomes of OECD membership for Nigeria's seed sector is the potential increase in resources dedicated to research and development (R&D). By fostering partnerships with organizations that specialize in agricultural R&D, Nigeria can enhance the quality of its seed varieties, cater to specific regional needs, and improve the overall competitiveness of its seed sector. In discussing the long-term benefits for Nigeria, Masha underscored the importance of advancing R&D capabilities in the seed sector to drive innovation and productivity gains. While immediate global demand for Nigerian seeds may not skyrocket, the focus on enhancing the sector's capabilities can position Nigeria as a key player in the regional seed market in the coming years. Masha also highlighted the critical role of breeders in the seed value chain, emphasizing the need for advanced technology and research tools to enable breeders to develop high-quality, regionally-adapted seed varieties. By investing in cutting-edge breeding technologies, Nigeria can accelerate the pace of seed innovation and address the evolving needs of local farmers with tailored solutions. In conclusion, Nigeria's pursuit of OECD membership represents a pivotal step towards unlocking the full potential of its agricultural sector, particularly in the realm of seed production and export. While challenges and complexities may accompany this journey, the prospects of economic growth, enhanced regulatory practices, and increased R&D investment signal a promising trajectory for Nigeria's agricultural future.