By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Wednesday, flagged off a two-day National Cocoa Workshop organised by the Cocoa Association of Nigeria in conjunction Lutheran World Relief (LWR).

The event with the theme “Deforestation-free cocoa production and improved trade practice through the adoption of a sustainable national traceability system. Key to Industry Development”, was held at the Dome.

Declaring the workshop open, Governor Aiyedatiwa recognised Ondo State’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s cocoa production, stressing that the State remains the leading cocoa-producing State in Nigeria.

“We recognise the industry’s potential for economic growth, poverty reduction and sustainable development in our dear State in particular and Nigeria in general”.

He noted that his administration has implemented various initiatives to boost cocoa production and support farmers, including; provision of improved seedlings and fertilizers, free of charge to farmers to enhance yield and quality, comprehensive training and capacity-building programmes for select farmers to adopt best practices, promotion of sustainable agricultural practices to ensure environmental conservation and long-term sustainability.

“We must work together to develop innovative solutions, leverage technology and promote sustainable practices. We cannot afford to be left behind in the global cocoa value chain. I have no doubt that this workshop will proffer lasting solutions to some of these challenges”.

He urged the participants to engage meaningfully, share knowledge and chart a path forward for sustainable cocoa production. “Let us work together to address the challenges facing our industry, capitalise on emerging opportunities and ensure the long-term sustainability of our cocoa industry”.

The Governor commended the Cocoa Association of Nigeria and Lutheran World Relief (LWR) for the initiative, adding that it will undoubtedly shape the future of the cocoa industry.

Earlier in his address, the National President, Cocoa Association of Nigeria, Mr Olayinka Abolarinwa, praised the national council praised Ondo State for playing a leadership role in cocoa production and described the workshop as a platform for aligning Nigeria’s cocoa sector with international best practices.

He stressed the importance of embracing the national traceability system to improve market access, especially in the face of new global requirements on deforestation and sustainable sourcing.

In his goodwill message, Dr. Victor Halim Iyama, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, expressed confidence in the potential of cocoa to significantly address Nigeria’s foreign exchange challenges. He noted that the structures currently being established serve as a clear roadmap toward a prosperous future for the industry.

The Minister of Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, represented by Hajarat Usman, affirmed that President Bola Tinubu, through his Renewed Hope agenda, is deeply committed to revitalizing the cocoa sector.

In attendance were: The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Director General, OSRC Media group, Mr Kenneth Odusola- Stevenson, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Political appointees.