Proposal for Revitalizing Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector: Re-establishing the Cocoa Board

By Rev. Dr. David B. Kayode, JP

Attention: 1. H.E, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Federal Republic of Nigeria
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

Introduction;
Rev. Dr. David B. Kayode, JP, as a strong member of APC-IGG , makes a suggestion, which was Submitted through Amb Musa M. Tsoken, National President APC Initiative For Good Governance APC-IGG. The proposal is for federal government of Nigeria, in her Renewed Agenda, consider the Revitalization of Nigeria’s agricultural sector by re-establishing the Cocoa Board in the South West region. This initiative aims to create jobs, strengthen the economy, and promote diversification beyond the oil sector.

Background:
Nigeria’s agricultural sector was once the backbone of our economy, with cocoa, groundnuts, and palm oil being major contributors to our GDP. The Cocoa Board, which was instrumental in the development of the Western Region, can be re-established to promote cocoa production, improve infrastructure, and increase the income of cocoa farmers.

Objectives;

1. Re-establish the Cocoa Board: To create a platform for cocoa farmers, provide support services, and promote the industry.
2. Job Creation: To generate employment opportunities in the cocoa value chain, from farming to processing and export.
3. Economic Diversification: To reduce dependence on oil and promote non-oil sectors, such as agriculture.
4. Regional Development: To revitalize the South West region’s economy and promote regional development.

Implementation:

1. Stakeholder Engagement: Consult with cocoa farmers, industry experts, and government agencies to develop a comprehensive plan.
2. Infrastructure Development: Establish necessary infrastructure, such as roads, storage facilities, and processing plants.
3. Support Services: Provide training, extension services, and access to finance for cocoa farmers.
4. Market Promotion: Promote Nigerian cocoa in the global market and attract investments.

Conclusion;
Re-establishing the Cocoa Board will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development, job creation, and diversification. I urge the Federal Government to consider this proposal and work towards revitalizing the agricultural sector.
Recommendations:

1. Establish a Task Force: To develop a comprehensive plan for re-establishing the Cocoa Board.
2. Allocate Funds: To provide necessary funding for infrastructure development and support services.
3. Promote Private Sector Participation: To encourage private sector investment in the cocoa industry.

It is believe that with the support of the Federal Government, we can revitalize the agricultural sector and promote economic development. I look forward to working with the government to achieve this goal.

Respectfully submitted,

Rev. Dr. David B. Kayode, JP
Strong Member, APC Initiative For Good Governance (APC-IGG)

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