Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar says palm oil remains a strategic pillar for Nigeria’s economic growth, food security and diversification agenda.
Tuggar stated this during a meeting with , Secretary-General of the , who led a delegation to the ministry.
He noted that palm oil plays a critical role across food production, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and manufacturing, and described negative global narratives about the commodity as inconsistent with historical realities. According to him, palm oil is central to rural livelihoods and economic transformation in Nigeria.
The minister disclosed that Nigeria currently produces about 1.4 million metric tonnes of palm oil annually, compared to domestic consumption of about three million tonnes, adding that the Federal Government has set targets to significantly increase output.
Tuggar said Nigeria’s potential transition from observer status to full membership of the CPOPC aligns with national priorities, including youth employment, agricultural competitiveness and stronger representation in global commodity diplomacy.
In her remarks, Izzana Salleh said the visit was aimed at deepening engagement as Nigeria’s observer status nears expiration, noting that the council’s leadership has agreed to waive membership fees for two years if Nigeria becomes a full member.
Also speaking, the council’s Director for Smallholders and Sustainability, Tony Lee, emphasised the importance of capacity building and support for smallholder farmers, describing palm oil as a major contributor to global vegetable oil supply and rural development.
