The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has reaffirmed its dedication to growing Nigeria’s coconut sector, highlighting the potential to generate over $250 million in revenue by the end of 2025, create jobs, expand opportunities across the value chain, and boost rural economic development.

Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, announced this at Abuja’s 2025 coconut planting season kickoff.

The “Coconut Revolution in Nigeria: Globally Competitive Advantage for the Actualisation of Coconut Sufficiency in Nigeria (COSIN)” event marked a renewed national focus on the coconut industry.

According to Ogunbiyi, the event marked a significant milestone in the nation’s collective efforts to promote agricultural development, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

Mr. Abdulrahman Balarabe, Director II at the Federal Department of Agriculture, represented him at the event.

Ogunbiyi commended the efforts of the National Coconut Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NACOPPMAN) for their vital role in transforming the sector’s narrative.

He emphasised the coconut’s multiple benefits, noting its value as a nutritious food source and as a raw material for industries including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.

“The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security remains committed to scaling up the coconut industry through targeted interventions. 

“These include providing infrastructure, improving access to high-yielding varieties, and building the capacity of farmers through technical support,” he said

Ogunbiyi also emphasised linking producers to local and international markets and ensuring value addition throughout the coconut value chain.

“As we commence this planting season, I urge farmers, processors, investors, and development partners to seize this opportunity,” he added.

He called on stakeholders to work together to scale up production and meet both domestic and international demand.

He also encouraged NACOPPMAN and other stakeholders to focus on improving livelihoods for coconut farmers and promoting inclusive business development.

“Let us embark on this journey with renewed dedication and shared purpose. 

“Together, we can build a resilient coconut industry that delivers sustainable benefits for our people and our nation,” he said.

The 2025 planting season, according to NACOPPMAN President Dr. Okoroji Okechukwu, earlier in the event, represents optimism, change, and Nigeria’s shared aspirations.

She characterised the occasion as the beating heart of a “Coconut Revolution in Nigeria” movement, rather than just a ceremony.

According to Okechukwu, the theme COSIN embodied the goal of turning obstacles into opportunities and propelling the coconut sector to previously unheard-of heights.

She continued that Nigeria would fortify its supply chains, enhance its processing capacities, and guarantee that each coconut product represented quality internationally through COSIN.

She emphasised that Nigeria’s lush soil offered a solid basis for worldwide competition in the coconut industry and urged players to embrace the revolution with unity and a common goal.

Source: Nairametrics