Cocoa Production to Make a Come Back in Nigeria as FG Plans Renewed Global Supply

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its ambition to reclaim Nigeria’s place among the world’s leading cocoa-producing countries. It supports this view by saying that the crop will be a pillar for job creation, economic growth and food security amid tightening global supply and rising prices.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, said the renewed push aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader agenda. It is reflected on the economic diversification clause of the country’s agenda with the aims of strengthening value chains beyond crude oil.

Global cocoa prices have surged over the past year following supply shocks in major producing countries such as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, driven by climate-related disruptions, disease and ageing farms. Industry analysts say the volatility has renewed attention on alternative African producers, including Nigeria.

Historically, the country has ranked among the top producers but has struggled to scale output and processing capacity.

Kyari said the Tinubu administration is committed to supporting sustainable development initiatives, encouraging responsible foreign investment and boosting productivity across the agricultural sector.

He added that Nigeria is leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to deepen intra-African trade. More so, to enhance global competitiveness, with a focus on regulatory compliance, carbon-smart cocoa production and youth inclusion.

A major focus of the government’s cocoa strategy is sustainability and compliance with emerging global standards. Kyari said Nigeria has enacted the Climate Change Act, committed to the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). It has also established a National Task Force on EUDR Compliance, alongside developing a National Cocoa Development Plan.

With the EUDR set to impose stricter traceability and deforestation-free requirements on cocoa entering the EU market, the minister said Nigeria aims to turn compliance into a competitive advantage.

Industry stakeholders note that Nigeria’s cocoa sector has long been constrained by low yields, limited processing and weak logistics, even as global demand for sustainably sourced cocoa and chocolate continues to rise. Recent policy moves, they argue, suggest Abuja is seeking to align domestic reforms with international market realities.