By DADA AYOKHAI
The mustard seed sown by the former Edo State Commissioner of Business, Trade, and Cooperatives, Hon. Afie Braimoh, while in office, to help the local MSMEs access the global market has continued to spark both local and International interest
While her effort has continued to yield huge potential and worldwide recognition, the ex- commissioner’s expertise in national and regional trade is the most sought-after.
Recently, a leader in the African Caribbean Market in Miami, Florida, USA, Mrs. Martina Osawenu visited Benin, the Edo State capital, along with her team, for a meeting with the Edo. Export Cluster. This was her first time coming home in seven years.
Mrs.Osawenu and her team were in the state to explore ways of helping Edo products, farmers Processors to access market in United States. This was especially important to her because during a prior visit by Hon Braimoh to her store in October 2022, she expressed sadness that none of the products in the store originated from Edo State, her place of origin. Subsequently, Mrs Osawenu committed to visit with a view to establishing a relationship with the Edo State export cluster. She was pleasantly surprised at the improved product presentation, quality, packaging and diverse shelf ready products.
Mrs. Osawenu held discussions at the Edo State secretariat of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, which also served as a platform for members of the NEPC to exhibit their products .
In an interview with the Borderline News24 crew, Mrs. Osawenu said the visit of her team was at the instance of the ex-commissioner, adding the visit enabled them to meet face-to-face with budding local entrepreneurs bustling with the idea and zeal to make a positive difference.
Mrs. Osawenu is also the owner of an African store in Miami, Florida, where African goods are stocked and traded.
She stated that her visit was an eye-opener, pointing out that since they now have first-hand knowledge of the problems African exporters face in accessing the global market, her body is poised to pave the way for “Proudly Edo” products to access the US market
She urged the potential exporters to ensure their products were of the highest quality and standards before they can enjoy the benefits of expanded access to the world market. This includes the right certifications such as FDA, NAFDAC and GTINs.
The members of the Edo Export Cluster who were present at the meeting poured encomium on Hon. Braimoh for her continued relentless efforts in creating a new vista of business opportunity despite the fact that she is no longer the commissioner of rhe Edo State government. They however did remind us that she will forever be their Commissioner of the people.
Hon. Braimoh is a lifetime member of the board of the Edo Export Cluster Council, an honour bestowed upon her as a result of her industry and exceptional stewardship.
