By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu.
CROSS RIVER GOVERNMENT AGRO INITIATIVE: DR NDEP TIKU RAMSON CHAMPIONS COCOA-COFFEE COMBO AMID GLOBAL MARKET GAINS.
In a strategic bid to diversify agricultural income and enhance productivity year-round, the Cross River State chapter of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) has announced its readiness to integrate coffee cultivation into existing cocoa farms.
Dr. Ndep Tiku Ramson, State Chairman of CFAN, disclosed the development during a recent address to stakeholders and representatives from the Cross River State Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development. He spoke passionately about the increasing momentum behind coffee farming, citing the sharp rise in global coffee prices and its potential to transform the economic landscape for cocoa farmers.
“Cocoa and coffee thrive in the same environment,” Dr Ndep explained. “They can be cultivated together, and one of the biggest advantages is seasonal variation. When cocoa is in its off-season, coffee begins to yield. This provides farmers with income throughout the year.”
Historically, coffee cultivation declined in the state due to poor market prices. However, current global trends paint a different picture. “Coffee prices were previously unattractive,” he said. “But today, the market has seen a significant upsurge.”
Dr Ndep, who is also a practising cocoa farmer, expressed confidence in the new initiative’s economic potential. “Coffee pricing is now very appealing. From January to April, when cocoa is off-season, coffee comes into harvest—ensuring we continue earning revenue.”
He praised the Ministry of Agriculture for its support and reiterated the association’s dedication to training and sensitising its members. “We are returning to our communities to educate farmers on the value of this project. As cocoa farmers, we are ready to embrace coffee.”
The initiative is being driven under the leadership of His Excellency, Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose administration is promoting agricultural integration as a catalyst for rural economic development.
With over 70% of Cross River’s population engaged in agriculture, the integration of cocoa and coffee farming holds promise for ushering in a new era of agribusiness and income stability across the state.
