The sun rises over the lush landscapes of Cross River State in Nigeria, where a groundbreaking initiative is taking root to revolutionize the country’s coffee production industry. In a strategic partnership between the state government and JR Farms, an esteemed agribusiness firm, plans are underway to plant a staggering 30 million coffee seedlings across the region.
At the heart of this endeavor lies a vision to not only boost local coffee cultivation but also to propel Nigeria into the global spotlight as a formidable player in the competitive coffee market. The recent launch of this ambitious project in Calabar marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, signaling a renewed commitment towards economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
Governor Bassey Otu stands at the forefront of this transformative initiative, emphasizing its multifaceted benefits for the community. He envisions Cross River reclaiming its status as the premier coffee hub of Nigeria while carving out a significant presence on the international stage.
“With 30 million robust and climate-appropriate seedlings distributed across our 18 local government areas, this project goes beyond mere cultivation; it paves the way for economic prosperity, ecological restoration, and social development,”
Governor Otu remarked.
The partnership with JR Farms adds another layer of expertise and global perspective to this monumental undertaking. Olawale Rotimi-Opeyemi, CEO of JR Farms, brings his wealth of experience from working extensively in East Africa’s coffee value chain to bolster Nigeria’s journey towards agricultural transformation. He underscores the far-reaching impact of cultivating 30 million seedlings not just on production volume but on livelihood improvement, youth empowerment, and sustainable growth.
“We are committed to leveraging our knowledge in coffee production and market access to ensure that Cross River emerges as a key player in the global coffee arena,”
Olawale affirmed. Through training programs for local farmers encompassing best practices and ethical standards, JR Farms aims to empower communities while enhancing product quality and market competitiveness.
As preparations unfold for establishing coffee washing stations across various regions and facilitating direct access to international markets, optimism runs high for Cross River’s ascendance in the world of premium coffee production. Olawale emphasized their dedication to showcasing Cross River Coffee on a global platform through strategic marketing endeavors aimed at captivating coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
The French Embassy’s support further underscores international collaboration towards enhancing Nigeria’s coffee industry. By aiding in securing essential roasting machinery for local value addition efforts, partners like the French Embassy play a crucial role in fortifying Nigeria’s foothold in the ever-evolving global market.
Commissioner Johnson Ebokpo echoes unwavering governmental commitment towards reshaping agriculture as an engine for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The meticulous planning behind distributing high-quality Robusta and Arabica seedlings tailored to ecological conditions reflects a holistic approach aimed at fostering wealth creation among farmers while promoting ethical practices throughout the value chain.
In essence, what began as an ambitious venture between Cross River State and JR Farms has blossomed into a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s burgeoning coffee sector—a testament to collaboration bridging continents for shared prosperity and sustainable progress.
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