The Federal Government has inaugurated the National Task Force (NTF) on the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to ensure Nigeria’s agricultural products comply with deforestation-free standards and maintain access to the European market.
During the event in Abuja, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, emphasized the need to address deforestation, which he described as a major driver of climate change and biodiversity loss.
“Deforestation and forest degradation are significant contributors to climate change. The EUDR provides a crucial opportunity for Nigeria to lead the way in sustainable agricultural practices,” Kyari stated. He added that only products meeting strict deforestation-free requirements will be allowed into the European Union market.
The regulation, which took effect on June 29, 2023, targets commodities such as timber, soya, palm oil, coffee, cocoa, and cattle, as well as products like chocolate, leather, tyres, and furniture. “Non-compliance with the EUDR would have severe consequences for Nigeria’s export markets, particularly for cocoa, rubber, and soya,” Kyari warned.
Cocoa alone accounts for 80% of Nigeria’s €523 million annual trade with the EU. Kyari joined the International Cocoa Organization in calling for a two-year postponement of the EUDR deadline, set for December 2024. “I use this opportunity to join the call for the suspension of the EUDR to allow more time for compliance,” he said.
Kyari also called for collaboration among stakeholders and highlighted the importance of a national database for traceability and certification, as well as forest mapping and due diligence.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Temitope Peter Fashedemi, represented by the Director of the Federal Department of Agriculture, Engr. Abubakar Abdullahi, reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for the task force.
The National Task Force will coordinate stakeholders, design an implementation strategy, and negotiate for a potential extension of the EUDR deadline with the EU.
