Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to transition from being a mere producer to becoming a major global processor of cocoa. He made this known during a meeting with the President of the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF), Chris Vincent, in Abuja.
Shettima highlighted the Federal Government’s recent approval of the National Cocoa Management Board as a key step in reviving the industry and enhancing the entire agricultural value chain. He also emphasized the country’s potential to meet international sustainability standards, particularly in alignment with the European Union’s regulations.
“We don’t want to be just producers of cocoa; we want to be processors. A tonne of cocoa sells for about $9,000, but if processed, it can bring in $30,000 — and even up to $50,000 as finished chocolate bars,” Shettima explained.
He pointed to Nigeria’s youthful and energetic population as a strategic advantage, noting that the average age in the country is just 17. “We have vibrant young people willing to work, and we are determined to give them opportunities,” he added.
Shettima expressed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with the WCF and pledged personal commitment to facilitating access to 10,000 hectares of land in Taraba State’s Kurmi Local Government Area to support cocoa expansion initiatives.
“This is about social impact, not just profit. It’s about creating jobs and improving lives. I want to walk the talk. Let me take you to my farm — you’ll see firsthand that this new leadership is actively involved,” he stated.
WCF President Chris Vincent, in response, underscored the urgency of the global cocoa supply crisis, noting that prices have quadrupled in the last three years due to shortages. He said the current environment presents a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to step up its sustainable cocoa production.
“We’re facing a global supply deficit, and the demand for sustainable cocoa is rising. Nigeria is well-positioned to meet that demand, and the time to act is now,” Vincent remarked.
