Nigeria Launches 1M Cocoa Seedlings to Boost Economy

On July 1, 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Sen. Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, launched a program to distribute 1 million improved hybrid cocoa seedlings.

This initiative aims to revitalize Nigeria's cocoa sector, enhance farmer incomes, and create job opportunities for Nigerian youth. The ceremony took place at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Sen. Kyari emphasized that this program is part of a broader national cocoa development plan under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

The seedlings are designed to be high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-adapted. The government plans to provide extensive support to farmers, including improved agronomic practices and market access.

The initiative seeks to restore Nigeria's position as a leading player in the global cocoa economy, addressing challenges such as low productivity and inadequate investment in the sector. The program also aims to enhance local processing capabilities and drive private sector participation in the cocoa value chain.