By George George Idowu
Akwa Ibom Government had provided over 150,000 cocoa seedlings for distribution to farmers across the state to enhance cocoa production in the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development in Akwa Ibom, Dr. Offiong Offor, made this disclosure and urged cocoa farmers in the state to embrace good agronomic practices to enhance their yields.
Offor made this appeal on Monday in Odoro Ikpe, Ini Local Government Area, during the distribution of cocoa seedlings to farmers, marking the start of the 2024 cocoa planting season.
She said the state government have made available over 150,000 cocoa seedlings for distribution.
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She said: “With the current high price of cocoa, it is a wake-up call from Governor Umo Eno for everyone to return to the farm. When you receive these cocoa seedlings, make the best use of them by maintaining good agronomic practices to achieve bountiful harvests.”
Offor also encouraged farmers to promptly inform extension agents in the ministry if they encounter any challenge urging them to use the seedlings wisely.
Mr. Ekikere Bassey, the State Chairman of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, emphasized the importance of supporting cocoa cultivation to boost the state’s economy.
He described cocoa farming as a lucrative agribusiness and urged more farmers to engage in cultivating this valuable cash crop.
