Abuja: Santuscom Foods Ltd has commenced the export of its processed agricultural products to the United Kingdom, marking its entry into the international market. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Paul Ofana, made this known in a statement on Thursday. He stated that the products were initially introduced in England before their distribution extended to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the products are now available in major departmental stores across the UK. The exported products include Ogoja Yam Poundo, Ogoja Garri, Ogoja Plantain Flour, Ogoja Palm Oil, and Santuscom Honey Beans. Mr. Ofana emphasized that this development reflects the company’s commitment to expanding the reach of Nigerian agricultural products in global markets. He added that the products were processed and packaged to meet international standards.
The reception in the UK has been particularly encouraging for the company’s unripe plantain flour, which has attracted interest among health-conscious consumers. At Dulwich Hospital in South East London, the unripe plantain flour is in high demand, especially among elderly individuals and those managing health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, indigestion, and weight management.
Mr. Ofana highlighted that the company would continue to maintain quality standards while expanding access to Nigerian food products in international markets. The export initiative supports efforts to promote value addition in agriculture and increase Nigeria’s non-oil exports. He noted that the growing demand for locally processed food products would create opportunities for farmers, processors, transporters, and other participants in the agricultural value chain.
To further bolster the export sector, Mr. Ofana called for improved access to finance, efficient transport infrastructure, faster product certification, and export-friendly policies to support indigenous exporters. He also mentioned that the African Continental Free Trade Area presents opportunities for further expansion into African markets. Looking ahead, he expressed optimism that the UK market would serve as a springboard for future expansion into Europe and North America.