A Study of the Potential for Increasing the Export of Horticultural Products by Air from Nigeria

The decline in global oil prices is considered an impetus for Nigeria to diversify into non-oil export as an additional means of generating growth. Horticultural products’ export (HPE) has been suggested as a means through which Nigeria could increase its foreign exchange earnings along similar lines as other African economies, such as Kenya and Ethiopia. However, to achieve competitive advantage in HPE necessitates participation in global horticulture value chains. Meanwhile, there are preconditions to gainful participation such as compliance with stringent food safety and quality standards, importing countries’ regulations, buyers’ specifications and other international trade regulatory standards, in addition to employing practices that can enhance market penetration.

The aim of this study is to explore the potential for increasing horticultural products’ export from Nigeria. The study has employed a single-case embedded design and multiple perspectives of five stakeholder groups were explored through interviews (a focus group, in-depth and telephone interviews) in addition to direct observations and archival records. These multiple sources of evidence have enabled this study to provide valid evidence of the barriers inhibiting HPE from Nigeria. The empirical findings show that there are multi-layered issues which require that a deliberate resolution must be made to position Nigeria’s horticulture sub-sector to participate in global horticulture value chains. The main barriers identified are the existing institutional framework, infrastructure and logistics issues, market penetration issues, stakeholders' inadequacy, food safety and quality concerns, high cost of finance, export operational challenges, neglect of agriculture and the current airline market structure.

While recognising there are a number of hurdles to overcome while participating in global horticulture value chains, the thesis concludes by outlining a number of recommendations to strategically improve HPE, emphasising that the onus for improvement lies on the Nigerian government and its institutions, private organisations and stakeholders who are seeking to increase the export of horticultural products from Nigeria.