Nigeria’s cocoa industry is undergoing a transformation as stakeholders push for increased youth participation and innovative strategies to boost productivity. The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has urged the government and private sector to create policies that attract young people to cocoa farming, emphasizing its potential for economic growth and job creation.
In a related move, the Cocoa Farmers and Aggregators Association of Africa (COFAAA) was recently launched to unify African cocoa farmers and promote sustainable practices. COFAAA aims to enhance collaboration across the continent, ensuring better market access and improved earnings for smallholder farmers.
Experts have called for a rethinking of Nigeria’s cocoa strategy, citing the need for improved infrastructure, access to financing, and research into high-yield varieties. They argue that modernizing the sector and encouraging youth participation will secure Nigeria’s place in the global cocoa market, where competition is increasing.