The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reclaiming Nigeria’s position among the world’s top cocoa-producing countries, aiming to drive job creation, economic growth, and food security.
Speaking at the International Cocoa and Chocolate Forum (ICCF 2026) in London on January 26, 2026, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari said Nigeria possesses natural advantages in cocoa production, including fertile soils, suitable agro-ecological zones, and a long-standing farming tradition.
Kyari emphasized that the Tinubu administration is supporting sustainable development initiatives, promoting responsible foreign investment, increasing productivity, expanding trade, and deepening economic activity across the agricultural sector.
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The minister noted that Nigeria is strengthening economic ties through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and global competitiveness.
Key measures include:
- Gazetting a Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions
- Advancing AfCFTA implementation, projected to increase intra-African trade by 53.3% by 2026
- Engaging international partners such as the EU and CPTPP to promote trade sovereignty
To support sustainable cocoa production, Nigeria has enacted the Climate Change Act and outlined a pathway to net-zero emissions by 2060, committed to the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), established a National Task Force on EUDR Compliance, and developed the National Cocoa Development Plan to modernize farming and strengthen value chains.
Kyari highlighted that public-private partnerships, geospatial tools, and innovative financing solutions will help convert EUDR compliance into a competitive advantage, while youth inclusion, climate-smart agriculture, and improved farmer livelihoods remain priorities.
Driving Economic Growth and Partnerships
The minister hailed ICCF 2026 as a key platform for partnership, dialogue, and cultural exchange to revitalize cocoa production and promote socio-economic growth in Nigeria and across Africa. He commended HRM Oba Dokun Thompson for convening the forum and creating avenues for collaboration in the cocoa sector.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
