By Roseline Okakah

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As Ondo State Government empowers trained Cocoa Nursery Preneurs, they have been urged to produce quality products to boost Nigeria economy.

The Nursery Prenuers were empowered with starter packs comprising of Head pan, shovel, rain boots, gloves, cutlasses and many other items shortly after the end of a two-day training programme for youths as Cocoa Nursery Preneurs held in Akure.

 A cocoa value chain Consultant, Mr. Akin Oluwalade, who delivered a lecture on cocoa quality, producing high-quality cocoa for export, advised them on choosing the right variety that would be easy to control against pests, and diseases, and adhere to international standards on residue limits.

  Head of the Department of Crop Production Technology at FECA, Dr Ajayi Ademola in his presentation, emphasized the significant role of cocoa in Nigeria’s economy.

  He raised the need for increased cocoa plantation size, improved production capacity, adoption of good agronomy practices, and engagement in value addition to boost the country’s economic contribution.

 The Pioneer Secretary of Cocoa Revolution and Management Agency and member of Ondo State Cocoa Council, Chief Toba Adenowuro, emphasized the importance of good agricultural practices during the training.

Adenowuro urged participants to focus on proper establishment and management, ensuring they don’t fall prey to substandard seedlings.

Representing the Chairman of the Ondo State Cocoa Council, Dr. Olusegun Awolumate, conducted sessions on global agricultural best practices.

A participant from Ijugbere, Owo local government, Mr Ebenezer Awuyo,expressed enthusiasm about the training, anticipating improved cocoa farming production.

Another participant from Akure South Local Government, Deborah Abanikanda applauded the initiative, saying it provides a gateway for youth engagement in agriculture.