Erisco calls for ban on tomato paste importation

The President and Chief Executive of Erisco, Chief Eric Umeofia

Erisco Foods Limited has called on the Federal Government to ban importation of tomato paste into the country to encourage further investments in agricultural industry.

 

The President and Chief Executive of Erisco, Chief Eric Umeofia said at the commissioning of a tomato processing plant that the company’s tomatoes factory which is the first in Africa and fourth in the world would always ensure that Nigerians eat fresher and healthier.
 

He said Erisco Foods revolution in tomato paste will stop the 75per cent annual wastes in fresh tomatoes across the country.

 

He stated that if not for dumping of substandard tomato paste in Nigeria, Erisco. would have employed over 9000 Nigerians.

 

Umeofia stressed the need for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to task commercial banking sector to support the practical diversification of the economy now with very low interest rates and favorable conditions.

 

Speaking at the event, the First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Muhammadu Buhari said Nigeria has imported enough and it is high time the country resorted to exploring local materials.