AAUA partners CBN on cocoa production, targets 10,000 jobs

By Bukola Olamona
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The Research and Development Farms of the Faculty of Agriculture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, has unveiled plans that would boost the production and post-harvest processes of Cocoa in Nigeria, and create an estimated 10,000 jobs in the process.

The plans, which will be carried out in conjunction with the Accelerated Agriculture Development Scheme (AADS), an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria, is expected to resuscitate old cocoa farms, raise new generation of cocoa farmers, and generally sustain the position of Nigeria as the leading producer of Cocoa in Africa.

Speaking while receiving the team from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in his office on Tuesday, last week, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, pledged the support of the University towards ensuring that the Scheme runs smoothly and ensure the resuscitation of cocoa production in Nigeria. He also said with this collaboration, the University would key-in to the system to make the Institution relevant internationally.

Speaking on behalf of the AADS team, Dr. Olabintan Adebowale said the initiative would not only assist in the planting of cocoa, but also assist to link the University with old and new farmers and value chain processors of cocoa beans. He also said the CBN’s initiative would provide needed resources and finance while the University is expected to provide the land for farming and other necessary technical inputs.

The Team Leader also reiterate that the Scheme is aimed at creating jobs for at least 10,000 youths in each participating state through partnership with the respective government and also attract students to cocoa farming.