Kwara State Distributes 10,000 Cocoa Seedlings to Farmers

The Kwara State Government has commenced the distribution of 10,000 improved cocoa seedlings to farmers in cocoa-producing local government areas. This initiative, flagged off at Owa Kajola in Isin Local Government Area by the Supervising Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Oloruntoyosi Thomas, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Funke Sokoya, is part of efforts to provide quality planting materials and rejuvenate ageing cocoa plantations.

The seedlings, allocated by the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), are designed to yield fruits within 18 months. Mrs Thomas emphasized the importance of adhering to recommended agronomic practices for optimal growth and yield.

This initiative aligns with the state’s 10-Year Agricultural Transformation Plan, which aims to enhance crop production and agricultural value chains. The Chairman of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, Mrs Maccarthy Funmilayo Omoyemisi, and the Chairman of the Cocoa Industry Farmers Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, Mr Oloyede Ezekiel, praised the timely distribution.

Beneficiary Mr Abolaji Kareem expressed gratitude, highlighting the positive impact on farmers' livelihoods.