The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) and key stakeholders have pledged to ensure compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) in Nigeria. At the 3rd National Festival in Calabar, Cross River State, CFAN National President Adeola Adegoke emphasized the need to support youth inclusion in cocoa farming and processing through entrepreneurship development ¹.
Challenges Facing the Cocoa Sector
Adegoke highlighted issues affecting productivity and market share, including:
- Outdated farming practices
- Limited access to quality seedlings
- Poor infrastructure
- Insufficient investment in technology and innovation
Festival Objective
The festival aims to provide a platform for industry players to network and facilitate growth and development. Previous festivals were held in Akure, Ondo State, and Abuja.
Strategic Plans for Cross River State
Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Commissioner Johnson Ebokpo, outlined strategic plans for the cocoa industry, focusing on market system and sustainability in line with EUDR. The state currently produces 58-62 thousand tonnes of cocoa annually and cultivates 123 thousand hectares of land.
Call to Action
Traditional rulers and communities were urged to encourage youth inclusion in cocoa farming, processing, and management. Chairman Daniel Asukwo noted that Nigeria was once a powerhouse in cocoa production and emphasized the need for empowerment to meet global demands.
The CFAN has been working towards sustainability, partnering with organizations like Lutheran World Relief to eradicate child labor and promote traceability ¹. With united efforts, Nigeria’s cocoa industry is poised for growth and development.
