Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu has launched a Deforestation-Free Policy aimed at promoting climate-smart commodity production, protecting forests, and strengthening farmer livelihoods.

The policy was unveiled in Calabar, with the governor represented by his deputy, Mr Peter Odey. 

Governor Otu stated that the initiative reflects the state’s resolve to remain competitive in a global agricultural economy where sustainability, traceability and transparency have become essential for market access.

Commending the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Mr Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, alongside members of the Multi-Stakeholder Committee and development partner UK Propcom+, the governor described the policy as the product of extensive consultation and technical expertise.

Cross River State, which hosts over half of Nigeria’s remaining tropical rainforests, carries, according to the governor, both a privilege and a responsibility. 

He stressed that agricultural expansion must deliver jobs, food security and income without undermining irreplaceable forest resources.

Governor Otu explained that tightening international regulations, including the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), have reshaped global trade expectations for agricultural commodities. 

Sustainability and traceability, he noted, are now prerequisites for accessing premium export markets.

To strengthen compliance, the state has appointed PULA Advisors as lead consultants to support EUDR-aligned traceability across cocoa, coffee and oil palm value chains. 

The engagement will improve farm mapping, data systems and supply-chain transparency, ensuring Cross River commodities meet global standards.

The governor emphasised that the policy is people-centred, placing smallholder farmers at its core. 

Through yield intensification, agroforestry, access to finance and capacity building, farmers are being supported to produce more on existing land while protecting forests and improving incomes.

He called on government agencies, the private sector and farming communities to fully align with the policy to ensure long-term success.

Describing the launch as a milestone, Commissioner Ebokpo said the policy provides a practical framework for responsible land use, inclusive growth and sustainable productivity. 

He noted that collaboration and community ownership would be critical to its success.

UK Propcom+ also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural transformation. 

Represented by Strategy Director Dr Olumide Ojo, the organisation described the policy as a model for linking environmental protection with economic opportunity, youth employment and climate-smart livelihoods.

Source: Business Day
Image Credit: Independent News