Unveiled on Thursday, the programme is part of a broader effort to enhance Nigeria’s export competitiveness by aligning its standards with international benchmarks. The initiative is being implemented through a collaboration between the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Nigeria’s National Quality Council (NQC), in partnership with the British Standards Institution (BSI).
Trade Incentives and Policy Support
A highlight of the event was the revelation that over 3,500 Nigerian products currently qualify for zero-tariff entry into the UK under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). This presents a transformative opportunity for Nigerian manufacturers, agribusinesses, and SMEs looking to penetrate high-value global markets.
By leveraging this preferential access, Nigerian exporters stand to gain not only from cost savings but also from enhanced credibility and competitiveness, especially in sectors such as agriculture, processed foods, textiles, and light manufacturing.
Deepening Standards and Quality Infrastructure
The Standards Partnership Programme aims to support the implementation of Nigeria’s National Quality Policy, with a focus on strengthening national quality infrastructure. This includes improving capacity in standards development, conformity assessment, metrology (the science of measurement), and accreditation.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Osita Aboloma, Chairman and CEO of the National Quality Council, described the programme as a “strategic turning point” for Nigeria’s trade ecosystem. He emphasized the initiative’s potential to elevate Nigeria’s export readiness while boosting economic growth, job creation, and social welfare.
“The Programme is targeted at supporting Nigeria... by strengthening the national quality infrastructure pillars... towards greater efficiency and sustainability,” Aboloma said. “This will enhance trading activities between the two countries via seamless import and export.”
Institutional Capacity and Bilateral Growth
The programme also reflects growing UK interest in deepening trade ties with African nations, particularly Nigeria, due to its large consumer market and rich natural resources. It builds on the UK’s commitment to support sustainable and inclusive trade growth in developing economies, especially in post-Brexit global trade dynamics.
According to Simeon Umukoro, Trade Market Access Lead at the UK High Commission, one of the standout achievements of the partnership has been the formal incorporation of metrology into Nigeria’s trade framework. This, he noted, has proven crucial in enhancing product quality and competitiveness in global markets.
Looking Ahead
Launched in 2023 across 11 countries and territories, including Nigeria, the UK-Nigeria Standards Partnership Programme represents a long-term commitment to building resilient, standards-driven trade relationships. As Phase III unfolds, stakeholders are optimistic that more Nigerian businesses — particularly small and medium-sized enterprises — will be empowered to meet global standards and fully tap into export opportunities.
Ultimately, the programme positions Nigeria to move beyond being a raw material exporter toward becoming a more value-driven, globally integrated economy.