The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has officially launched a new initiative aimed at empowering students to engage in non-oil exports and entrepreneurship. The program, named the Student Trade, Entrepreneurship and Export Programme (STEP-X), was introduced by NEPC's Executive Director, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, during an event held on Thursday. The theme of the launch, "From Campus to Global Market: Empowering Nigerian Students for Non-Oil Export and Global Entrepreneurship," emphasizes the importance of equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in the international market.

Mrs. Ayeni highlighted the potential of Nigeria's youthful population as a significant economic asset, stressing the need to harness their creativity and innovation for national development. She stated, "Youths are not only the future, they are the drivers of tomorrow’s economy. They are agents of change and strong influencers in the sphere of things." This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical business skills, enabling students to transform their ideas into export-ready enterprises.

The NEPC has reported impressive figures in the non-oil export sector, with earnings reaching approximately $6.1 billion in 2025, an increase from $5.46 billion in 2024. During this period, 281 products were exported to 120 countries, showcasing the potential of Nigerian goods on the global stage. However, Ayeni noted that many young entrepreneurs are yet to fully exploit these export opportunities due to a lack of knowledge about international markets and export procedures.

To address these challenges, the STEP-X program will focus on critical areas such as export readiness, international market research, documentation, quality standards, and digital trade. The partnership with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is expected to enhance outreach, allowing the NEPC to engage with students across various educational institutions, including universities and polytechnics.

Ayeni expressed optimism about the impact of the program, encouraging students to embrace the opportunities presented. "Do not think of export as something reserved for big companies. Many of today’s successful Nigerian exporters started small," she remarked. The NEPC aims to identify and nurture the next generation of exporters among the student population, aligning this initiative with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes economic diversification and youth empowerment.

The National President of NANS, represented by the Secretary General, Comr. Oladimeji Uthman Salawudeen, praised the initiative, stating that it would help students transition from academic settings to becoming independent entrepreneurs. He noted that many students are already engaged in various trades, and this program will further enhance their capabilities in international trade, contributing to Nigeria's foreign exchange earnings.

The STEP-X initiative is seen as a vital step towards equipping Nigerian students with the necessary tools to succeed in the global market, ultimately fostering economic growth and sustainability in Nigeria.