- Ambitious Goal: To make Cross River a top player in global cocoa, coffee, and oil palm markets.
- Key Strategies: Focus on traceability, certification, and sustainability.
- Timeline: Expect major changes within the next few months!
- Investment Focus: Attracting investors and rolling out new agricultural estates.
Cross River’s Agricultural Revolution: What’s the Plan?
The Cross River State Government is not playing around! They’ve just unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize their agricultural sector, with a focus on cocoa, coffee, and oil palm. This isn’t just about planting more trees; it’s a comprehensive strategy to make Cross River a major force in the global agricultural market.
Governor Bassey Otu received the 7-year strategic development plan alongside a revised Produce Law Report. The roadmap aims for Cross River to be a sustainable, traceable, and globally competitive hub for agricultural exports, meeting the highest international standards.
Why This Matters: Economic Revitalization
The governor emphasized that this plan is a vital tool for economic revitalization. Agriculture is at the forefront of their sustainable growth strategy. The focus on traceability, certification, and sustainability is crucial to access premium global markets. Think higher prices and more demand for Cross River’s products!
Action Plan: What to Expect
Here’s what you need to know about the immediate steps:
- Six Weeks: An actionable implementation roadmap will be developed.
- Three Months: The Revised Produce Inspection Services Bill will be pushed through the State House of Assembly, and a Produce Inspection Board will be inaugurated.
- Four Months: A dedicated Cash Crop Development Agency will be up and running to coordinate everything.
- July 2025: Investor engagement will begin, and preparations for new agricultural estates will be underway.
Who’s Involved?
This isn’t a solo effort. Governor Otu thanked development partners like the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research, Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, FAO-FOLUR, Lutheran World Relief (TRACE Project), and Propcom+ for their support.
Expert Input: A Collaborative Effort
Professor Susan Ohen, head of the Strategic Committee, highlighted that the roadmap is the result of collaboration among over 45 experts, ensuring it aligns with both local needs and international standards.
The Big Picture: Diversifying the Economy
Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Johnson Ekpobo, emphasized the plan’s transformative potential. Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke, noted that this initiative is part of a broader effort to diversify the state’s economic base.
Former House Member’s Take
Former House of Representatives member, Daniel Asuquo, urged the government to ensure timely implementation, calling it a crucial step toward making Cross River a major player in global markets.
The Future of Agriculture in Cross River
Cross River State is positioning itself as a key player in the global agricultural market. With a clear plan, strong partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, the state is set to reap the rewards of this ambitious initiative. Keep an eye on Cross River – they’re about to make some serious waves in the world of cocoa, coffee, and oil palm!
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