The Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Mr. Johnson Ebokpo (Jr.), says if adequately harnessed, Cocoa, coffee, and Palm oil products can potentially boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange.
Ebokpo stated that the proceeds from these produce could be used to tackle poverty, embark on rural development, and ensure food security.
The Commissioner made the remarks during the validation workshop organised by the Cross River State Ministry of Agriculture for Cocoa, Coffee and Palm oil strategic development plan Thursday at Axari Hotel Calabar.
Ebokpo stated that the workshop, which aimed to enhance productivity and generate revenue for smallholder farmers and the state government, boosted the economy of the state and the nation at large.
In March 2024, Gov. Bassey Otu set up a multi-stakeholder committee to assist in the state’s development of Coffee, cocoa, and oil Palm.
Part of the committee’s responsibility is to develop a 7-year strategic plan to create a roadmap in the cocoa, coffee and Palm oil value chain.
The Commissioner advocated for a coordinated approach if the challenges involved along the entire value chain were to be addressed.
Ebokpo stated that the 7-Year Strategic Development Plan drafted by the committee represents extensive consultations and thorough research.
The Commissioner described the committee as a visionary strategy to maximise the benefits of the three essential crops through a value chain model prioritising productivity, sustainability, and market competitiveness.
“The success of this strategic plan depends on the commitment of everyone here, from policymakers to private sector representatives, researchers to farmers. Each of us plays a role in transforming these sectors into drivers of growth and prosperity.” Ebokpo maintained.
He stressed that the meeting’s purpose is to validate the plan, ensuring it reflects the realities on the ground and incorporates insights from those directly engaged in the value chain.
He called on participants to engage fully, provide constructive input, and ensure the final plan is strong, implementable, and aligned with shared goals.
Prof. Susan Ohen, Chairperson of the Multi-Stakeholder Committee, recognised the crucial contributions of stakeholders in achieving the plan’s objectives and highlighted its importance to Cross River State’s economy.
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