In a bold declaration that signals a new era for Nigeria’s agriculture sector, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has announced the government’s commitment to transforming the country from a cocoa-producing nation into a major global processor of cocoa beans.
During a meeting with the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) delegation at the Presidential Villa on Monday, Shettima said the administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aims to revive Nigeria’s role in the global cocoa value chain.
A Strategic Shift: From Production to Processing
Shettima laid out a clear vision for the revival of Nigeria’s cocoa industry . He emphasized the need to move beyond exporting raw beans toward value addition and industrialization .
“We don’t want to be producers of cocoa; we want to be processors of cocoa,” Shettima declared. “A tonne of cocoa will fetch $9,000 now, but processed cocoa can get you $30,000. If you turn it into chocolate bars, that might reach $50,000.”
This strategic shift aligns with the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda —building a more self-sufficient and economically resilient Nigeria through youth participation, sustainable farming, and agro-industrial growth.
Policy Support and Institutional Framework
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved the creation of the National Cocoa Management Board (NCMB) . The board will lead efforts to revitalize the entire cocoa value chain.
Shettima assured the WCF delegation that the Nigerian government supports sustainable cocoa farming and forest preservation . He also highlighted Nigeria’s demographic advantage.
“We have very energetic young people who are ready to work if given the chance,” he said.
Leading by Example: A Model Cocoa Farm in Taraba
To show his personal commitment, Shettima revealed he is developing a model cocoa farm in Taraba State . This project is not about profit but about creating jobs and inspiring youth involvement in agriculture.
“It’s not about making money,” he explained. “It’s about social impact—providing employment opportunities.”
He also pledged to work with state governments, particularly in Taraba’s Kurmi Local Government Area , where over 10,000 hectares of land are being set aside for investment by international partners like the World Cocoa Foundation .
Global Partnership for Sustainable Growth
Mr. Chris Vincent, President of the World Cocoa Foundation, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s potential. He said Nigeria can help fill the current global cocoa supply gap , which has seen prices rise fourfold in three years.
“We are in the middle of a global cocoa supply shortage,” Vincent stated. “The next two to three years are an opportunity for growth—and Nigeria is well-positioned to lead in Africa.”
He praised Nigeria’s alignment with global sustainability standards, especially those set by the European Union . He also affirmed WCF’s readiness to support Nigeria’s transition to a climate-resilient and socially responsible cocoa industry .
Call to Action: Join the Movement for Agricultural Transformation!
What do you think about Nigeria’s push to process cocoa locally? Could this mark the beginning of a new agricultural revolution?
💬 Leave a comment below and share your thoughts on the future of the Nigeria cocoa industry revival .
📢 Don’t forget to share this post on social media to spread awareness about how Nigeria is positioning itself as a global player in cocoa processing.
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