Anambra agric commissioner, Mr Afam Mbanefo at the meeting of Policy Dialogue by Major Stakeholders on Standard Weight and Measure in cassava and rice Value Chains, organized by the IFAD/ VCDP.
By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mechanization, Processing and Export, Mr. Afam Mbanefo has stressed the need to introduce measurement concept across the country for uniformity in value of Agricultural products.
Mr. Mbanefo who made the call in his office in Awka during Policy Dialogue by Major Stakeholders on Standard Weight and Measure in cassava and rice Value Chains, organized by the IFAD VCDP said every trader should sell with a weighing balance.
The Commissioner announced that the state government had put all necessary measures in place to work out how people that produce Anambra rice will ensure that it comes out as regulated as it should.
While announcing that desk officer would be adopted in the Ministry to collaborate with the Ministry of Trade and Commerce in setting up a body that will sensitize people in the hinterland on the benefits of Standard Weight and Measure, Mr. Mbanefo appealed to all stakeholders to work hard and create an enabling environment for it to thrive.
The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Dr. Christian Mmadubuko who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Daniel Okoh described the Dialogue by Major Stakeholders on Standard Weight and Measure as a welcome development noting that it will restore confidence and trust.
Also speaking, the National Program Coordinator, IFAD VCDP, Dr. Amen Onoja who spoke through Chief Kennedy Esinulo pointed out that Standard Weight and Measure policy is already in existence, adding that IFAD VCDP is only calling for its total implementation and compliance.
The State Coordinator, Standard Organization of Nigerian, SON, Engr Nwaoma Olujie, assured that SON will offer calibration services that must be accurate and meet international standards.
The State Project Coordinator, IFAD VCDP, Mr. Nnamdi Agwuncha said with the disparity in measurement in markets across the country, the sustainability which the project is preaching may be a mirage noting that the dialogue was aimed at encouraging farmers, producers, processors and marketers to use standard weight and measures.
