The Cross River State Government convened a validation meeting for its draft 7-Year Strategic Development Plan for Cocoa, Coffee, and Oil Palm from January 30th to 31st, 2025, at Axari Hotel, Calabar.
The gathering brought together key stakeholders to refine and finalize the plan, ensuring it aligns with the state’s vision for economic transformation through agriculture.
The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo KSM, noted the significance of the initiative in his keynote address.
He described it as a turning point for Cross River’s agricultural sector, emphasizing the state’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of these cash crops.
"Agriculture has long been the backbone of Cross River State’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions and serving as a driver of growth. Cocoa, coffee, and oil palm, in particular, hold immense promise as foreign exchange earners and catalysts for rural development, poverty reduction, and food security. However, realizing their full potential requires a coordinated and strategic approach that embraces innovation and sustainability."
He commended Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his visionary leadership in setting up the multi-stakeholder committee, which was inaugurated on March 12, 2024.
The draft plan, according to him, is a comprehensive document developed through extensive consultations and research. It aims to address critical issues along the value chain while positioning Cross River State as a leading agricultural hub.
commissioner stressed that the success of the strategic plan rests on the commitment of all stakeholders—government officials, private investors, researchers, and farmers alike.
"Let us engage deeply, challenge ideas constructively, and ensure that this plan sets Cross River on a path of sustainable agricultural transformation."
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Ntufam Ekpe Bassey, who also serves as the committee’s secretary, noted that the state’s agricultural estate dates back 60 years.
He stressed the need for a clear and actionable roadmap, which the strategic plan seeks to provide.
He urged stakeholders to engage actively in the validation process to ensure that the plan is robust, implementable, and reflective of real industry challenges.
In an interview with journalists Prof. Susan Ohen, Chairperson of the Multi-Stakeholder Committee and Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Calabar, provided an in-depth breakdown of the plan, highlighting specific frameworks for each crop.
"For Cocoa, we have identified eight strategic pillars, another eight for Palm Oil, and five for Coffee. These include production, extension services, sustainability, input supply, market access, and financing. We have also designed measurable activities to actualize these pillars over the seven-year period."
She further noted that the sustainability plan incorporated into the strategy would ensure the continuous development of the sector beyond the initial seven years.
Also in an interview with journalists Dr. Michael Enahoro, Commercial Lead at PULA, an agricultural insurance and technology firm, emphasized the need to empower Nigerian farmers.
"Farming is a lucrative business, not just for the poor. This plan must ensure that mapped farms experience sustainable growth and that profits from Cross River's agricultural products benefit local farmers and communities. Nigerians must recognize agriculture as a viable economic sector with tangible returns." He concluded.
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