Cross River State Government, says plans have been concluded to boost cocoa production in all the three senatorial districts in an effort to be recognized as the number one cocoa-producing state in Nigeria.
The State Deputy Governor, Professor, Ivara Esu, made this known in Calabar, during the Flag off and distribution of cocoa nursery in Cross River Southern Senatorial District.
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Esu, who was accompanied by the special adviser to the governor on cocoa production and Development, Oscar Ofuka said, it was high time the state returned to agriculture as an alternative source of income in view of the dwindling federal allocation occasion by mono-oil economy.
He said the state is poised to revolutionalize cocoa production in its efforts to meet the required international standard.
On their part, the Chairmen of Bakassi LGA, Iyadim Iyadim, and that of Akampa LGA Linus Bassey, said they are happy to join cocoa production in their rich agricultural produces.
Cross River is currently occupying the second position after Ondo State on the list of major cocoa producers in Nigeria, the position the Deputy Governor said is contestable due to the state richness in cocoa production.
(Editor: Abaje Usekwe)