PEDA strengthens agricultural trade linkages through global partnerships
The Produce Export Development Alliance (PEDA) is positioning Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s agricultural export growth through strategic global partnerships.
PEDA, formerly the Agricultural Fresh Growers and Exporters Association of Nigeria, is a leading agrifood trade and market development organisation that continues to position Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s agricultural export growth through its strategic partnerships, trade missions, and value-chain programs.
According to Adetiloye Aiyeola, chief executive officer of PEDA, Nigeria’s agricultural export sector is showing strong signs of recovery, but the real story is in the resilience of our producers.
“In the last two quarters alone, exports have grown by double digits, yet logistics costs, financing gaps, and compliance challenges still limit how much value reaches the farmer. It shows that policy consistency and private-sector collaboration are now more critical than ever,” he said.
Aiyeola also highlighted that despite economic headwinds, the non-oil export averaged N3 trillion in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025, which he says reflects Africa’s most populous nation’s untapped competitiveness.
“Data tells a clear story. Our task is to ensure that this growth translates into stable livelihoods, stronger supply chains, and new markets for local agribusinesses,” he added.
According to Aiyeola, recorded growth in non-oil is mainly driven by cocoa, sesame, as well as other horticultural commodities.
It signals a rising demand for organised trade facilitation, “precisely the gap that PEDA programmes and partnerships are designed to fill”.
Founded to enable African agribusinesses to access international markets, PEDA has built a strong network across farmer groups, exporters, and market enablers to enhance competitiveness in horticulture, processed foods, and non-oil commodities.
Over time, the organisation has evolved into an influential trade facilitation platform that connects African producers to global buyers through market intelligence, logistics support, and export readiness initiatives.
Itunuoluwa Olatawura, a member of PEDA’s volunteer network, said: “Our focus is on building long-term market confidence. Each partnership we cultivate helps us make trade more reliable and profitable for African producers.”
Olatawura disclosed that PEDA is now preparing for an important engagement with the Scottish African Business Association (SABA) in the United Kingdom, where discussions will focus on strengthening trade relations, sustainability, and investment between African agribusinesses and UK buyers.
The visit forms part of a broader effort to build structured trade corridors and position Nigeria as a dependable source of quality agricultural exports.
