James Emejo in Abuja
The acting Comptroller General, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, (NAQS), Dr. Godwin Audu, has said the agency is currently working to ensure adhere to the European Union (EU) requirements for exportation of products.
This comes as the service approved the promotion of over 100 officers to the rank of
Assistant Superintendent of Quarantine I (ASQ I).
Speaking at the maiden meeting with station and zonal coordinators in Abuja, Audu noted that the upliftment was long overdue having been confirmed, as part of efforts to boost the morale of workers.
However, he said compliance to EU standards will no doubt avert imminent rejection of Nigerian products to EU countries.
He said going forward, human capital development will be prioritised and urged staff to rededicate themselves to the task of repositioning the agency to better serve the diverse stakeholders.
In a statement issued by Head, Media Communications and Strategies, NAQS, Mr. Akanji Joshua, Audu reminded the staff of his administration’s open door policy which will give room for innovative ideas stressing that the development will contribute in growing the agency.
The NAQS boss promised to look into the challenge from different Zones on the state of infrastructure and operational tools in order to ease their working condition.
He stressed the importance of fostering stronger relationships with sister bodies and stakeholders, and urged zonal and station coordinators to follow suit, emphasising his belief in unity.
He announced the establishment of the Operations and Enforcement Department within the agency, which will oversee seamless operations, minimize unnecessary seizures, and enforce seizures judiciously.
He, however, assured all stakeholders that the agency remains dedicated to promoting ease of doing business and facilitating trade in line with the current government’s Renewed Hope agenda.