The governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has urged teamwork and creativity to tackle the main issues confronting the Nigerian cocoa industry, especially those related to climate change, inefficient value chains, and inadequate succession planning.
This call was made by Aiyedatiwa on Wednesday, 7th April at The Dome in Akure, during the opening of the two-day National Cocoa Stakeholders’ Workshop and Excellence Award Ceremony, which was hosted by the Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN) in partnership with Lutheran World Relief (LWR).
The event, which had the theme “Deforestation-Free Cocoa Production and Improved Trade Practices Through Adoption of Sustainable National Traceability System: Key to Industry Growth and Development,” attracted important participants from all points of the cocoa value chain, including exporters, processors, and farmers.
According to Aiyedatiwa, “as we convene to deliberate on this very apposite theme, we are reminded of Ondo State’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s cocoa production. Ondo State remains the leading cocoa-producing state in Nigeria, and we recognise the industry’s potential for economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.”
The Governor outlined several initiatives his administration is already implementing to support the cocoa sector. These include the provision of free improved seedlings and fertilisers, training and capacity-building for farmers, better access to markets and finance, and a strong push for sustainable agricultural practices.
He highlighted key challenges, including environmental degradation driven by climate change, inefficient market systems, ageing farms, and a lack of data for informed decision-making.
“To address these challenges, we must work together to develop innovative solutions, leverage technology, and promote sustainable practices. We cannot afford to be left behind in the global cocoa value chain.
“To all participants, I charge you to engage meaningfully, share knowledge and chart a path forward for sustainable cocoa production. Let us work together to address the challenges facing our industry, capitalise on emerging opportunities and ensure the long-term sustainability of our cocoa industry,” he added.
Earlier in his welcome address, the National President of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria, M.O. Abolarinwa, praised Ondo State for its leadership in cocoa production and described the workshop as a platform for aligning Nigeria’s cocoa sector with international best practices.
In light of the new international regulations on deforestation and sustainable sourcing, he emphasised the significance of adopting the national traceability system to enhance market access.
In his goodwill message, Victor Halim Iyama, chairman of the board of trustees, stated that he is confident cocoa can greatly alleviate Nigeria’s foreign exchange problems. He pointed out that the frameworks being put in place now provide a clear path to the industry’s success in the future.
Hajara Usman, who attended the event on behalf of Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, also reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s strong commitment to reviving the cocoa industry through his Renewed Hope agenda.
Source: BusinessDay
Image Credit: Governor’s Forum
