The Akwa Ibom State Government has begun distributing 150,000 cocoa seedlings to farmers as part of its 2025 initiative to enhance cocoa production across the state.
Dr. Offiong Offor, the Commissioner for Agriculture, launched the distribution on Friday at the Ministry’s Hybrid Cocoa Nursery in Odoro Ikpe, Ini Local Government Area. She emphasized that cocoa is a valuable export crop with strong global demand.
According to Offor, the state government remains dedicated to promoting cocoa cultivation as a means to strengthen food security and drive economic development.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s ongoing commitment to supporting farmers across all categories within the state.
The Commissioner encouraged recipients to adopt proper agronomic practices to maximize the productivity of the seedlings.
She also noted that the distribution would be prioritized for communities actively engaged in cocoa cultivation.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Akwa Ibom, Mr. Bassey Inwang, praised the state government for its consistent provision of agricultural inputs to farmers.
Inwang advised farmers to observe adequate spacing, utilize organic manure, and apply insecticides appropriately to ensure healthy crop development.
