Clarion Olusegun
The Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has issued an open letter to the EU Commission, urging the postponement of the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) implementation from December 2024 to December 2025.
This appeal was backed by the Federal Government of Nigeria and various international voices, including the United States and several EU member states.
In the letter signed by the National President, CFAN, Comrade Adeola Adegoke and made available to Agronigeria on Saturday the association formally appealed to the European Union addressed to Janusz Wojciechowski, the EU Commissioner for Agriculture.
According to the press statement released on Friday, the president highlighted the significant progress Nigeria has made, achieving about 60 percent traceability in its cocoa supply chain through diligent efforts by stakeholders.
However, he noted that smallholder cocoa farmers still need more time to adequately prepare for the EUDR compliance.
“Our appeal is based on the imminent negative impact on the livelihoods of cocoa farmers if the present date is not shifted by one year,” stated CFAN National President, Comrade Adeola Adegoke. “The majority of our cocoa farmers are in penury, and the EUDR compliance might push them further into poverty if the time frame is not adjusted.”
Nigeria, contributing approximately 6.5% to global cocoa production, plays a vital role in the international cocoa market. In 2023, cocoa accounted for 29% of Nigeria’s total agricultural export, valued at N1.24 trillion, with an estimated worth of N356.16 billion.
Comrade Adegoke reminded the public that CFAN had first raised the alarm about the EUDR in 2021, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The association has since been proactive in addressing sustainability issues within the cocoa sector, including deforestation and traceability.
“We appreciate the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and other relevant bodies for their support,” said Adegoke. “We have made significant strides, but we need more time to ensure full compliance and to protect the livelihoods of our farmers.”
CFAN has embarked on various advocacy and capacity-building initiatives, such as the Cocoa Farmers Roundtable Conference, to educate farmers on sustainable practices and the importance of deforestation-free cocoa production.
The Comrade further revealed that these efforts have been supported by partnerships with several stakeholders and organisations.
He said that CFAN has secured funding for cocoa farm maintenance through the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Anchor Borrowers Program, benefitting 1,227 cocoa farmers across ten states.
“This financial support has increased farm productivity by 30% and sustainable practices by 70%.
“The collaboration with various stakeholders has yielded positive results in social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
“However, the postponement of the EUDR implementation is crucial for the continued progress and well-being of our farmers.”
The association reiterated its commitment to working with the EU Commission and other international bodies to build a sustainable global cocoa economy.