National Approval Committee Conducts Comprehensive Inspection of NANTS Modern Meat Factory in Preparation for ECOWAS Trade Certification

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The National Approval Committee (NAC) has embarked on an extensive examination of the facilities and operations at the NANTS Modern Meat Factory, located at Giri - Gwagwalada in Abuja, in accordance with the requirements for obtaining the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) Certificate. This certification is vital for the exportation of meat and meat products within the 15 member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The inspection, conducted by a team of experts from the NAC drawn from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies including the private sector organizations, aims to ensure that the NANTS Modern Meat Factory complies with the stringent standards set forth by ECOWAS for food products processing facilities. These standards encompass various aspects, including hygiene, sanitation, production processes, and adherence to health, environmental, and safety regulations.

During the inspection process, representatives from the NAC meticulously assessed the factory's infrastructure, equipment, and procedures to verify their suitability for meat production and exportation. They scrutinized the factory's handling of raw materials, processing methods, packaging protocols, and storage facilities to ascertain compliance with international trade requirements.

The NAC's evaluation of the NANTS Modern Meat Factory is a critical step in the certification process, as it ensures that the facility meets the necessary criteria to obtain the ETLS Certificate. This certificate not only signifies adherence to quality and safety standards but also facilitates the smooth flow of trade by eliminating trade barriers within the ECOWAS region.

Furthermore, The Ministry Of Foreign Affairs which was headed by Ambassador Olawale AweCommended NANTS for blazing with the first modern technology meat factory and providing Nigeria with access to market especially the AFCFTA. More so, achieving ECOWAS trade certification for the NANTS Modern Meat Factory holds significant economic implications, as it enables the company to access lucrative markets beyond national borders. By meeting the stringent requirements set by ECOWAS, the factory demonstrates its commitment to producing high-quality meat products that meet international standards.

The outcome of the inspection will play a pivotal role in determining whether the NANTS Modern Meat Factory receives the coveted ETLS Certificate, thereby paving the way for expanded export opportunities and bolstering the region's agricultural trade sector.

At the end of the visit, the team expressed satisfaction with the quality of the facility infrastructure as well as operational processes and procedures. A provisional approval was therefore announced to NANTS by the NAC.

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