The Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, along with key stakeholders, welcomed Olawale Rotimi, the CEO of JR Farms, who visited to investigate investment opportunities in the coffee and cassava value chains.

Rotimi, whose agribusiness spans four countries, shared JR Farms’ achievements in coffee production in Rwanda. Acknowledging Cross River’s favorable conditions for coffee cultivation, he expressed a desire to collaborate with the state government and local farmers to enhance this sector.

He stated, “As coffee production in Nigeria is still developing, we plan to invest in training farmers, boosting the market, and ensuring the production of high-quality coffee that meets international standards.” Rotimi also highlighted that the peaceful environment of Cross River influenced their decision, projecting plans to establish a large-scale coffee roasting facility in the state.

Commissioner Ebokpo assured JR Farms and other partners of the government’s full backing, emphasizing that coffee is a key priority for Governor Bassey Otu’s administration. He noted that Cross River’s agricultural vision aims to strengthen the cash crop economy for economic transformation. Ebokpo stressed the need for short-term income from arable crop production to support long-term investments in cash crops, ensuring a balanced agricultural economy.

Prof. Susana Ohen, Chairman of the Multi-Stakeholder Committee on Cocoa, Coffee, and Oil Palm, welcomed JR Farms’ interest, indicating it aligns with the state’s sustainable coffee production strategy. Dr. Assam Assam, Chairman of the National Coffee and Tea Association of Nigeria (NACOFTAN) for Cross River, described the visit as timely, noting a newly established coffee nursery in the northern senatorial district would support these initiatives.

Goodwill messages from various officials, including Prof. John Shiyam, Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, and Dr. Osas Damian, State Coordinator of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council, indicated that the state is progressing towards total prosperity.

The visit included a courtesy call to the Acting Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, as well as tours of potential coffee cultivation sites in, Okwuabang, Boki,    and Belinge Clan of Obanliku LGAs.

Additionally, Ekwunife Chukwuemeka, CEO of Town and Country Limited, who is interested in starch processing, toured the starch factory in Ochon, Obubra LGA, and expressed satisfaction with the facility’s condition, outlining plans for its rapid functionality.

Local communities warmly welcomed the proposed coffee projects, pledging their support. With JR Farms’ commitment to investment and training, stakeholders are optimistic that Cross River will soon become a key player in the global coffee market, promoting job creation and economic growth.