Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria accelerates plans to become a full member of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries, signalling a strategic push to revive its oil palm sector, boost exports and strengthen food security.
The move dominates discussions on Saturday in Abuja between Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari and a CPOPC delegation led by Secretary-General Izzana Salleh, as Nigeria prepares to exit observer status by November.
“Palm oil is a strategic export crop that can drive foreign exchange and improve nutrition,” Kyari says.
He confirms a technical committee is reviewing membership requirements, including access to climate-resilient seed varieties to support local farmers.
President of the National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria, Alphonsus Inyang, outlines ambitious targets of over 10 million tonnes of output between 2026 and 2050.
“We are targeting 2.5 million hectares from Nigerian households to build a ₦20 trillion annual economy,” he says.
Salleh says full membership would elevate Nigeria’s influence in global palm oil policy and sustainability debates.
The committee’s report is expected in April, paving the way for formal accession.
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