Nigeria Can Boost Agricultural Export Earnings By Strengthening Cold Chain Sector – OTACCWA

Alexander Isong, President of the Organization for Technology Advancement of Cold Chain in West Africa (OTACCWA) has said that Nigeria can increase its agricultural export earnings, which currently stand at about $2 billion annually, with potential to grow to $10 billion in the next five years by strengthening the nation’s cold chain sector.

He said this while speaking in Lagos on the upcoming 7th West Africa Cold Chain Summit & Exhibition (WACCSE), which is expected to hold alongside with the Nigeria agrofood & Nigeria plastprintpack in March.

He said that the premier event serves as a critical platform for advancing discussions on cold chain logistics, food security, and agricultural export competitiveness in Nigeria and the broader West African region.

Isong pointed out that the cold chain is a pillar of nutrition and food security and that cold chain infrastructure is not just about preservation; that it is about nutrition, food safety, and national food security.

“With post-harvest losses in Nigeria reaching an estimated 40 percent annually, valued at over N3.5trillion, the need for a reliable cold chain system has never been more pressing.

“By ensuring that fresh produce, dairy, meat, and seafood maintain optimal temperatures, we can significantly reduce food waste and enhance the nutritional value of food reaching consumers.

Speaking further he said that cold chain systems are integral to preventing spoilage, reducing microbial contamination, and extending the shelf life of perishable goods.

“This contributes to better nutrition and improved public health by ensuring that high-quality, nutrient-dense foods remain available for consumption, especially in rural and underserved areas.

For Nigeria to expand its agricultural exports and compete on the global stage, according to him, it must adhere to international food safety and certification standards.

“Cold chain logistics play a crucial role in achieving compliance with HACCP, ISO 22000, Global G.A.P, and other export certification frameworks.

“Countries that import Nigerian produce require temperature-controlled logistics to guarantee food safety and traceability. Without proper cold storage and transport, Nigerian farmers risk rejection of their exports due to spoilage, contamination, or failure to meet stringent quality benchmarks,” he added.