Ogun State Government has organized a workshop for Cocoa farmers and relevant stakeholders, as part of strategies to improve the quality and quantity of agricultural produce for export purposes.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture , Dr. Adeola Odedina speaking during the one-day workshop held at Area J4 Forest Reserve in Ogun East Local Government Area, said the present administration was determined to transform the economy and rejuvenate agriculture in addition to supporting farmers with necessary inputs.
Odedina explained that the step would help to diversify the economy and improve the well-being of farmers
He expressed concern that the unwholesome activities of some mischievous stakeholders had adversely affected the quality and marketing of agricultural produce and profit margin of merchants, as well as revenue to government coffers.
Also speaking, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Dotun Sorunke stressed the need to train farmers and value-chain stakeholders with the aims of improving yield and ensuring that cocoa produced in the State meets international standards.
"Cocoa business is very lucrative, that is why we want many youths to take advantage that abounds in its value-chain. The Governor has given us the mandate to encourage and empower farmers, and in line with this, the Ministry had distributed 100,000 new improved cocoa seedlings to farmers across the State, free of charge",he stated
In his remarks, the Chairman, Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ogun State chapter, Mr. Olusegun Sowunmi, commended the government for the training and support given to them, saying the backing had greatly enhanced their businesses.
On his part, the Chairman, Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN), Apostle Solomon Williams, advised farmers to adopt best agricultural practices in the cultivation and processing of cocoa for better yield.
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