By Suleiman Shehu

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) has advised cocoa farmers to shun unethical practices which have been leading to avoidable losses in cocoa production.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, gave the advice during the 60th anniversary of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan on Monday.

Kyari, who was represented by FMAFS South-West Zonal Director, Mrs Olayinka Akeredolu, observed that cocoa farmers cut corners by rushing cocoa’s processing and production stages.

“When cocoa is exported, they are tested and these sharp practices, which our people have done, are discovered.

“The implication of this may be the rejection of our product and, when they are rejected, it is a big loss to farmers, investors and Nigeria in general,” he said.

The minister said Federal Government would prefer that things are done properly to enable farmers gain from the efforts invested in producing the commodity.

He then urged cocoa farmers to seek counsel and interact with research institutes and extension agents whenever they have problems.

The minister further urged the farmers to add value to their production to enjoy better income and gain from their efforts.

“I will encourage them to continue to plant new cocoa when the ones they have are getting old. We have improved varieties in our research institutes, which they can purchase and plant.

“They need to adopt technology in the improvement of their production,” he said.

Kyari commended CRIN for its tremendous contributions and improvement over the years in developing its mandate crops, which include cocoa, kola, cashew, coffee, tea and plant plum.

“The Federal Government rejoices you on your 60th anniversary and encourages you to continue to do more to attain the fulfillment of your mandate and contributions to the country’s GDP,” he said.

Earlier, CRIN Executive Director, Dr Patrick Adebola, had commended the Federal Government as well as the staff of the institute for their support and commitment.

Adebola reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to leading the charge in agriculture innovation, leveraging science and technology to enhance productivity and improve farmers’ livelihood in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Moses Solanke