The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) and other industry stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to meeting the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) to ensure the sustainability of Nigeria’s cocoa industry. This pledge, made during the 3rd National Cocoa Festival held in Calabar, highlights the association’s dedication to compliance, as well as to encouraging youth participation in cocoa farming and entrepreneurship.

CFAN National President Adeola Adegoke emphasized the necessity of EUDR compliance to enhance cocoa market access. The festival’s theme, focused on the roles of the National Cocoa Management Committee (NCMC) and youth involvement, underscores the importance of modernizing farming practices and addressing challenges such as limited access to quality seedlings, poor infrastructure, and outdated agricultural technology.

Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Ebokpo, applauded the association’s choice of Cross River State as the festival venue and noted that the state produces around 58,000-62,000 tonnes of cocoa annually. “Our strategy is to make cocoa a key driver of economic development, in compliance with EUDR,” Otu stated, outlining plans to boost the state’s production capacity, review agricultural laws, and attract foreign investors.

Chairman of the festival and former House Representative Daniel Asukwo highlighted Nigeria’s historical strength in cocoa, once the world’s second-largest exporter, and underscored the need for international compliance to regain that status.

The event reiterated calls for traditional leaders and communities to support youth involvement in cocoa farming, with stakeholders pledging to address issues like the rising cost of inputs and currency depreciation to support cocoa farmers and elevate Nigeria’s position in the global cocoa market.