By Douglas Okoro

The National Association of Rubber Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN) says Nigeria is targeting to contribute at least 12 per cent of global rubber production.

The National President of NARPPMAN, Mr Peter Idowu, said this on Thursday in Abakaliki during the inauguration of the pioneer state executive members of the association.

“Our target is to contribute at least 12 per cent of global rubber production because Nigeria has enough land and resources to achieve it. 

“We are poised to collaborate with government institutions, corporate organisations and international partners in building a resilient rubber value chain,” Idowu said.

He said that the association was committed to reviving the rubber sector and repositioning it as a key driver of agricultural and industrial development.

The Ebonyi chapter, according to him, is the 18th to be inaugurated since the association’s formation in 2019, with plans to establish 24 state chapters nationwide.

Idowu said that NARPPMAN was determined to restore rubber’s pride of place among Nigeria’s export crops, contribute to natural resource management and alleviate poverty through sustainable production.

He urged the Ebonyi government to collaborate with the association to produce a comprehensive rubber development policy, with focus on out-grower schemes, off-takers, processing and marketing.

In his remarks, Mr Jonathan Udu, Chairman, Ebonyi chapter of the association, described the inauguration as a milestone in diversifying agriculture and reviving rubber production in the state.

He recalled that rubber was introduced during the colonial era alongside cocoa and palm oil but had declined over the years.

“In spite of the challenges, rubber still has immense potential to drive economic growth, create jobs and empower communities.

“We pledge to work with the national body, government and private sector to reposition rubber as a major agro-industrial product in Ebonyi,” Udu said.

He commended Gov. Francis Nwifuru for prioritising agriculture in his People’s Charter of Needs agenda, describing his policies on food security, youth empowerment and agro-business as a strong foundation for rubber development.

Also speaking, Dr Steve Odo, Director-General of the Ebonyi Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDA), assured rubber farmers of the government’s full support. 

“Rubber is one of the crops that can diversify our economy.

“The government will work with NARPPMAN to support farmers with inputs, extension services and access to markets,” Odo said.

Eze Charles Azuenya, the Traditional Ruler of Ebouwana Edda, pledged to donate land in his domain for rubber cultivation, describing the association’s formation as historic.

Chief Ugo Nnachi, an ex-officio member of the new executive, noted that Ebonyi could become the South-East hub for rubber production with adequate farmer incentives.

Mrs Nkechinyere Iyioku, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, represented by Chief Fidelis Mwankwo, welcomed the initiative and assured government partnership.

She urged the new leadership to develop workable strategies to boost rubber plantation in the state.

Highlights of the event was the swearing-in of the 10-man state executive.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Côte d’Ivoire is Africa’s largest natural rubber producer with an annual growth of over 30 per cent and a record 1.7 million metric tons in 2023.

The country became the world’s third-largest producer in 2024, after contributing about 12 per cent of the global output. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne