Ogun Govt to establish cocoa enclave in 3 senatorial districts
In its determination to boost cocoa production and maintain best practices, the Ogun State government has resolved to establish a cocoa enclave in the three senatorial districts of the state.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo disclosed this during a courtesy visit to players in the produce supply chain in Ogbere and Area J4 in Ijebu East Local Government Area of the state.
Noting that the visit was to chat a path towards ensuring a sustainable state of cocoa business in the state, Owotomo noted that cocoa was one of the vital backbones of supporting livelihoods and driver of economy with ability to offer opportunities for millions worldwide.
He pointed out that players in the produce business play unique roles in sustainable agriculture, adding that initiatives to combat deforestation, restore graded lands and promote agroforestry practice must be a central strategy.
The commissioner explained that, investing in environmental protection, would safeguard the future of cocoa production and contribute to global fight against climate change.
He stressed that government, private sector players, nongovernmental organisations, and local communities must work together to proffer solutions towards reducing waste and meet evolving consumer demands.
According to him, the government has begun the raising of improved seedlings of cocoa, cashew and other cash crops for next year distribution, hinting that the Governor had approved the Purchase of tractors and other farm implements that would be deployed to enhance farming activities.
Owotomo disclosed that the Ministry would henceforth hold a quarterly meeting with the Executives of the Association with the aim of identifying with their challenges towards finding a lasting solution.
On his part, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Waliu Owode, assured farmers of the continued support of the state government, in boosting their Production.
In his address, the Director, Produce Services, Mr. Augustine Somade appealed to players in the Produce Supply Chain to continue to cooperate with government as no single entity could address the complexities of the cocoa supply chain alone.
Contributing, the Chairman, Cocoa Association of Nigeria, CAN, Sesan Sowunmi, commended the state government for its unalloyed support for cocoa farmers in the state, promising to cooperate with the government to further improve the sector.
