The governor made this call during the Ondo State Cocoa Day at the 3rd edition of the Ondo State Agriculture Show and Food Fair in Akure.
Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Mr. Olayato Aribo, Akeredolu emphasized the importance of producing high-quality farm produce for international markets, discouraging the use of harmful agrochemicals.
He urged educated youths and retirees to collaborate with the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities’ Association for increased agricultural output and to attract federal support to the state.
The National President of Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN), Mr. Gbemitan Abolarinwa, emphasized the need for smart agricultural practices and irrigation systems to increase production and sustainability in the cocoa sector.
He urged governments to focus on funding the upstream (production) sector of the cocoa value chain to achieve economic diversification and boost foreign exchange earnings.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Cocoa Council, Dr. Olusegun Awolumate, expressed gratitude to the state government for its support in cocoa production, pledging the council's commitment to promoting climate-smart cocoa production.