SEO Riders:
– Youth engagement in Nigerian cocoa farming
– Impact of cocoa price surge on agriculture in Southwest Nigeria
– Modernization of cocoa farming practices in Nigeria
The recent surge in global cocoa prices has prompted a significant number of youths in Nigeria’s southwestern states—particularly Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti—to return to their villages and acquire land for cocoa farming. This shift is driven by the lucrative opportunities presented by the cocoa market, with prices reaching unprecedented levels. Many young individuals, previously unemployed or engaged in less profitable occupations, are now investing in cocoa cultivation, viewing it as a viable means to improve their economic standing.
Veteran farmers and industry experts have noted that the adoption of modern farming techniques and equipment has enhanced productivity and profitability in cocoa farming. The influx of young farmers is revitalizing the sector, with some even returning from the diaspora to invest in cocoa plantations. However, challenges such as adverse weather conditions, pests, and the need for modern equipment persist. Stakeholders are calling on the government to provide support in the form of improved infrastructure, access to quality seedlings, and financial assistance to sustain and boost cocoa production in the region.
