Nigerian cocoa farmers have threatened to go on a nationwide strike if Federal government does not address the neglect of the sector.
The National Executive Council of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN), in a communiqué signed by its National President, Raimi Adeniji, the National Secretary, Adeola Adegoke as well as representatives of 14 states after their meeting in Akure, alleged that in spite of the diversification of Nigeria’s economy to Agriculture, government had neglected the sector.
The farmers threatened to stage a protest in cocoa producing states in the country as well as in Abuja and Lagos.
Faulting the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, CFAN stated that they had made several demands for the procurement of inputs for cocoa farmers as well as excluding them in the diversification programme.
The Association condemned government for procuring fake and substandard inputs for cocoa farmers.
“CFAN reiterated our earlier call on Mr. President to reorganise the procurement process in the cocoa value chain to give room for our contribution. Almost a quarter of Nigeria cocoa plantations were destroyed by fire during last year’s dry season without any support from the Federal Government, despite our complaints,” the communiqué read in parts.
They appealed to government to develop the cocoa industry as he promised during his campaigns.
“CFAN appeals to Buhari to intervene urgently to save the livelihood and future of cocoa farmers, considering the diversification campaign of the present administration,” it added.
