The Chief Executive Officer, Erisco Foods, Chief Eric Umeofia, has called on the Federal Government to enforce the ban it placed on importation of tomato paste from China.
Umeofia made the call on Thursday at the official launch of Erisco Foods new products- 3in1 Garri mix and Erisco milk cubes, as part of its commitment to deepen industrialisation of the nation’s economy.
According to him, NAFDAC reports confirmed that 91.8 per cent of the imported tomato pastes were fake and substandard.
“However, it is regrettable that the system has yet to implement the policy one year after, hence, the influx of different brands of tomato paste more than ever before in the Nigerian market.
“The importers are even boasting that the implementation of the tomato policy will never see the light of the day.
“It is obvious they are having their ways without any hindrance, while genuine manufacturers are struggling with pains to remain in business,” he said.
The industrialist said that the Erisco 450,000 metric tons tomato processing plant was operating below 20 per cent of its installed capacity due to the activities of unscrupulous Nigerians who were importing substandard tomato paste.
Umeofia urged the government to provide more support to the manufacturing sector to make it more productive and attractive, thus reducing import.
He also urged Nigerians to support the locally produced goods with their patronage, adding that collaborative efforts of the government, consumers and manufacturers would industrialise and grow the economy.
Umeofia also announced the choice of Actress, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha as its Brand Ambassador, as part of his support to youths and growth of the creative industry.
“The choice of Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha is a true reflection of the fact that she has an exciting personality that embodies the values and strength of the Nigerian woman.
“Having made her mark in the field of Acting and as a good family woman, it is auspicious to use her strength and values to promote the rich brand that Erisco Foods Limited is known for,” he said.
Responding, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha, thanked the management of Erisco Foods for finding her worthy to be the Brand Ambassador of the company.
She promised to use her voice and platform to promote Made-in-Nigeria products.
NAN reports that the 3- in -1 Garri mix was developed to provide a balanced whole meal at an affordable price to an average Nigerians.
“The Nagiko 3in1 Garri mix is the first of its kind as Erisco Foods Ltd is the first company to produce this whole on the move meal.
“The product is a mixture of Ijebu Garri, sugar and milk, produced in the most hygienic environment and affordable at N50 which is a good value for your money,” Umeofia said.
The Erisco milk cubes were designed to cater for the nutritional needs of children, youths and even adults.
NAN
