FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: July 22, 2025
Location: Abuja, Nigeria

The Oil Palm Growers Association of Nigeria (OPGAN) was proudly represented at the landmark inauguration of the National Palm Oil Traceability Framework and Interagency Committee, held yesterday in Abuja. This historic event, presided over by the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, who was ably represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, marks a transformative milestone for Nigeria’s oil palm industry.

A Game-Changer for Oil Palm Growers

OPGAN’s participation in this initiative represents a significant victory for all Nigerian oil palm farmers and the entire oil palm value chain. The Traceability Framework directly addresses long-standing challenges faced by oil palm growers and processors, promising enhanced market access, better pricing, and international recognition for Nigerian palm oil.

Key Benefits for OPGAN Members

The inauguration ceremony highlighted several critical advantages that will directly benefit OPGAN members:

Premium Market Access: The framework opens doors to high-value export markets in Europe and North America, where buyers demand verifiable evidence of sustainable and ethical production practices.

Enhanced Pricing Opportunities: With proper traceability documentation, OPGAN members can access premium pricing and fair trade opportunities previously unavailable to Nigerian producers.

Financial Services Access: The system will facilitate better access to credit and financial services for smallholder farmers, who represent over 80% of Nigeria’s palm oil production.

Quality Assurance: Traceability helps eliminate adulteration and ensures compliance with national and international quality standards, strengthening the reputation of Nigerian palm oil.

OPGAN’s Strategic Position

As the leading representative body for oil palm growers in Nigeria, OPGAN recognizes the transformative potential of this framework:

Industry Leadership: OPGAN will play a crucial role in educating members about traceability requirements and benefits, ensuring smooth implementation across all levels of production.

Smallholder Empowerment: With our extensive network of smallholder farmers, OPGAN is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between policy and grassroots implementation.

Market Integration: The Association will work to integrate members into the formal supply chain, connecting them with processors, exporters, and international buyers seeking traceable palm oil.

Supporting Sustainable Growth

The framework aligns perfectly with OPGAN’s commitment to sustainable oil palm production. By promoting responsible farming practices and environmental stewardship, Nigerian growers can compete effectively in increasingly environmentally-conscious global markets.

International Partnership Impact

OPGAN commends the collaboration between Nigeria and international partners, including the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Government of the United Kingdom, facilitated through Solidaridad. This partnership demonstrates global confidence in Nigeria’s potential to become a leader in sustainable palm oil production.

OPGAN’s Commitment Moving Forward

The Association pledges to:

• Educate Members: Conduct comprehensive training programs on traceability requirements and implementation
• Facilitate Compliance: Assist members in meeting documentation and certification standards
• Market Linkage: Connect compliant growers with premium buyers and export opportunities
• Continuous Support: Provide ongoing technical assistance and advocacy for favorable policy implementation

Statement from OPGAN Leadership

“Today marks a new era for Nigerian oil palm growers,” said OPGAN President Barr. Joe Onyiuke. “The National Palm Oil Traceability Framework is not just a policy initiative—it’s our pathway to global competitiveness and sustainable prosperity. OPGAN is committed to ensuring every member benefits from this transformative opportunity.”

Economic Impact Expectations

The framework is expected to:

• Increase export revenue from Nigeria’s palm oil sector
• Attract foreign investment to the industry
• Create formal employment opportunities in rural areas
• Reduce post-harvest losses through improved supply chain management
• Position Nigeria as a preferred supplier of sustainable palm oil globally

About the Framework Implementation

The newly inaugurated Interagency Committee will oversee the implementation of Nigeria’s Palm Oil Traceability Roadmap, fostering coordination between government agencies, private sector actors, farmers’ cooperatives, processors, and market associations. OPGAN looks forward to active participation in this collaborative effort.

For more information, please contact:
Barr. Joe Onyiuke
National President,
Oil Palm Growers Association of Nigeria (OPGAN)
For media inquiries, contact:
Email: info@opgan.org.ng
Phone: +234 810 000 1623
Website: https://opgan.org.ng

About OPGAN:
The Oil Palm Growers Association of Nigeria is the apex body representing oil palm farmers, processors, and stakeholders across Nigeria. Established to promote sustainable oil palm production, OPGAN advocates for policies that enhance the competitiveness and profitability of Nigeria’s oil palm industry while supporting smallholder farmers and environmental sustainability.