By Fatima Muraina & Roseline Okakah

As farmers unveil Cocoa center

Centre and Store in Ondo state, the state government has advised them to adhere to the European Union regulations and educate others on cocoa forest plantations.

Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Mr Olayato Aribo gave the advice while unveiling the programme in Akure.

Aribo, who was represented by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Oluwagbenga Akingbasote, emphasized the importance of adhering to the directives of the European Union in sustaining cocoa production in the state.

The National President, Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, Comrade Adeola Adegoke, said the Cocoa centre and store is to empower local farmers, enhance cocoa production and address challenges facing cocoa value chain.

He said: “The cocoa store and center was established for the services our smallholders cocoa farmers  to strengthen  cocoa supply chains through collaboration, sustainable and ethical practices.

“The cocoa center and store will create opportunities for our smallholder cocoa farmers to have a better income in their cocoa beans through our responsible sourcing, generate more revenues for the state and the Federal Government.

The Special Guest at the event and the Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, regretted the decline in cocoa contribution to Nigeria’s foreign exchange..

The Chairman of Ondo State Cocoa Council, Dr. Olusegun Awolumate expressed gratitude to the government for supporting the cocoa industry.

Awolumate raised the need for increased cocoa production, urging farmers to adopt new technologies and involve younger generations in cocoa farming