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The Ekiti State Government has announced fresh plans to ensure cocoa produced in the state meets international standards, with a strong focus on training farmers in modern production methods and global compliance requirements.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, disclosed this during a two-day stakeholders’ workshop organised in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture under the TRACE project. The workshop brought together cocoa farmers, processors, regulators and other key industry players to align production practices with global expectations.
Boluwade said the state is determined to reposition its cocoa sector to compete favourably in international markets, especially at a time when buyers are demanding stricter environmental and traceability standards.
“Strict adherence to due process will enhance the credibility of Ekiti cocoa in the international market, improve farmers’ incomes and strengthen investor confidence,” he said.
He explained that the TRACE initiative would serve as a platform to educate farmers on modern production techniques, responsible land use, proper record keeping and compliance with global supply chain standards. According to him, the new direction is not just about enforcement, but about equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to meet export requirements.
Cocoa, he noted, remains central to Ekiti’s rural economy, and raising production standards will directly impact incomes, attract investment and create opportunities for young people in agriculture. He added that international markets now require clear documentation of product origin and proof that cocoa is not grown on protected forest land.
Under the new plan, farmers will undergo training on climate-smart agriculture and modern agronomic practices designed to improve productivity and sustainability. They will also be guided on farm mapping, documentation processes and traceability systems that make it easier to track cocoa from farm to export point.
The commissioner said the Oyebanji administration is backing the reforms with practical support. One of the key interventions is the distribution of improved cocoa seedlings at subsidised rates. According to him, the state provides up to 50 per cent subsidy on cocoa and other tree crop seedlings to encourage fresh planting, replace ageing or burnt trees and attract new entrants, particularly youths.
Beyond seedlings, the government is supporting farmers with agrochemicals and pest and disease control inputs to boost yields and improve bean quality. Boluwade stressed that raising standards must go hand in hand with increasing output and strengthening farmers’ capacity.
Ekiti has also been selected as a model state under the European Union’s Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative, which requires cocoa meant for export to meet strict sustainability benchmarks. As part of this, forestry regulations and land management systems in the state are being aligned with international expectations.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Babatope Ojo, said many compliance gaps are linked to limited awareness among farmers. He stated that the ministry would intensify extension services and capacity-building programmes to bridge knowledge gaps and ensure producers fully understand new requirements.
The ministry’s Director of Tree Crops, Mr. Tope Alao, said the workshop provided practical guidance on traceability systems, including farm mapping and proper documentation of cocoa origin. He noted that clear records are now essential for accessing premium international markets.
Representing the USDA under the TRACE project, Mr. Wale Awoyemi reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting productivity, quality improvement and traceability mechanisms in Ekiti. Participants at the workshop pledged to adopt the modern methods introduced and comply with the new standards aimed at strengthening the global competitiveness of Ekiti cocoa.
