NEPC Empowers Imo Cocoa Farmers with Seedlings to Boost Agricultural Exports

 The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has provided 1,025 cocoa seedlings to 35 cocoa farmers in Imo to enhance the agricultural products meant for export.

During the handover of the seedlings in Owerri, Dr. Ezra Yakusak, the Executive Director of NEPC, stated that this initiative was part of the government’s efforts to incentivize farmers and promote the growth of the agricultural sector.

Mr. Anthony Ajuruchi, NEPC’s Imo Coordinator, represented Dr. Yakusak and explained that the goal of this intervention was to include Imo in the list of cocoa exporters in Nigeria.

The farmers were advised to make the most of the government’s support by planting and nurturing the seedlings until they mature, thereby increasing production and return on investment.

The seedlings were sourced from the reputable Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) to ensure the best quality for the farmers.

Dr. Yakusak emphasized the significance of cocoa as a leading export product, highlighting the potential for substantial benefits along the value chain in the coming years.

Mr. Olayinka Olaniyi, CRIN’s Head of Station at Ibeku substation in Umuahia, expressed optimism that when the seedlings mature for export, they would contribute to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), impact farmers’ livelihoods, generate employment, and contribute to food security.

Mr. Innocent Dike, Chairman of the Imo chapter of the Cocoa and Plantain Farmers Association of Nigeria, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for their consideration of farmers and urged further interventions, including the provision of arable farmland and public awareness campaigns to increase patronage.

Mr. Emmanuel Nwapa, a cocoa farmer from the Oguta council area of Imo, emphasized the need for more investments in cocoa farming, highlighting its profitability and health benefits.

He also mentioned that cocoa cultivation is
suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, as it is not time-consuming or difficult to maintain.

Prof. Kenneth Amaechi, Chief Economic Adviser to the Imo government, represented by Mrs. Jovita Agu, pledged the state government’s support by offering additional incentives.

Mr. Edward Emereibe, the Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Trade, encouraged the farmers to capitalize on the state’s recently launched industrial policy for cocoa processing and export.