AKURE — Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of The Sunshine State (Ondo) has called for a united front to confront the pressing issues bedeviling cocoa production in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to develop practical solutions for a sector facing threats from climate change, poor market structures, and an aging farming population.
He made the appeal on Wednesday while declaring open a two-day National Cocoa Stakeholders’ Workshop and Excellence Award Ceremony held at The Dome in Akure. The programme, organised by the Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN) in partnership with Lutheran World Relief (LWR), brought together farmers, exporters, processors, and other major players in the cocoa chain.
With the theme, “Deforestation-Free Cocoa Production and Improved Trade Practices Through Adoption of Sustainable National Traceability System: Key to Industry Growth and Development,” the gathering focused on aligning Nigeria’s cocoa trade with emerging global standards.
Welcoming delegates from across the country, Aiyedatiwa said Ondo State, as the top cocoa-producing state in Nigeria, remains central to the crop’s future. He noted that cocoa remains a major contributor to livelihoods, rural development, and foreign exchange earnings.
He pointed out that his administration has taken steps to boost cocoa farming through the distribution of free improved seedlings, access to farm inputs, farmer training programmes, and market linkages.
Yet, he acknowledged that real progress will require joint efforts to overcome environmental challenges, lack of reliable data, outdated farming methods, and poor access to credit.
“We must join hands to find workable solutions and adapt to global realities. Let us use this forum to share knowledge, build partnerships and strengthen our resolve to sustain cocoa farming in Nigeria,” he said.
CAN National President, Mr. M.O. Abolarinwa, commended the government of Ondo State for its role in supporting cocoa producers and emphasised the urgency of implementing a traceability system. He said the mechanism would help the country meet new international trade conditions, especially those relating to environmental standards.
Also speaking, Dr. Victor Halim Iyama, Chairman of CAN’s Board of Trustees, noted that cocoa remains one of Nigeria’s most promising non-oil export commodities and expressed optimism that ongoing reforms could reposition the sector for better foreign exchange contributions.
Representing the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Hajara Usman said the Federal Government remains committed to revitalising the sector under the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
The workshop is expected to continue Thursday with technical discussions and consultations focused on reforming production practices, improving market access, and strengthening the national cocoa value chain.
