Cocoa: How Nigeria can overtake Ivory Coast, Ghana before 2026

Nigeria has the potential to double its premium cocoa bean production and surpass Ivory Coast and Ghana by 2026, provided smallholder farmers receive support from cocoa-producing state governments to implement year-round irrigation nationwide. Currently ranked fourth in cocoa production globally, Nigeria aims to increase its output from 340,000 to 500,000 metric tonnes by year-end, accounting for 6.5% of global production. The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) President, Adela Adegoke, is optimistic about Nigeria’s prospects, citing abundant resources, including land, youth population, research, soil quality, and private sector resilience.
Discussions at the recent National Cocoa Management Committee (NCMC) meeting in Akure, Ondo State, focused on mitigating the looming threat posed by EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) and enhancing cocoa production through the National Cocoa Plan’s implementation. Stakeholders emphasized transparency, traceability, and coordination within the cocoa industry. They underscored the importance of establishing the National Cocoa Board, proposed by President Bola Tinubu, to revive the sector and restore Nigeria’s former status as a leading cocoa producer. The reintroduction of the Cocoa Board, which historically played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s cocoa industry, signals a strategic move towards revitalizing the sector and reclaiming Nigeria’s position as a top cocoa producer. By implementing effective policies, stakeholders believe Nigeria can regain its prominence in the global cocoa market, reminiscent of its past success in the 1960s and 1970s. Source: The Guardian

OUR REVIEW
Nigeria’s ambition to double premium cocoa production presents a transformative opportunity for its agri-food sector. With strategic support, including year-round irrigation and policy enhancements, smallholder farmers can drive this growth, potentially elevating Nigeria’s global cocoa standing. Adequate infrastructure and governmental backing are critical to realizing this potential, as discussed in the recent NCMC meeting. Addressing challenges like the EUDR threat and promoting transparency within the cocoa industry are key steps. The proposed National Cocoa Board offers promise for sectoral revival and aligns with historical successes. Restoring Nigeria’s cocoa prowess not only boosts its economy but also revitalizes a once-thriving industry, fostering growth and stability.