The Cross River State government has announced that it will pay monthly stipends to cocoa farmers in order to encourage them to produce more.
This was disclosed by the state Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Esu, who was represented at the distribution of improved cocoa seedlings to farmers in the state’s Southern Senatorial District by former Commissioner for Finance, Asuquo Ekpenyong jr.
Esu stated that the state government will also provide farmers with other agricultural resources in order to encourage local production.
“Government will begin to extend some stipends to local cocoa farmers to further encourage them.”
Oscar Ofuka, Special Adviser to the Governor on Cocoa Development and Control, stated at the event that the 100,000 seedlings are being distributed free of charge.
“The idea is to create green millionaires across the state. The farmers are the ones driving the cocoa revolution in the state with a passion.”
Munene Maurice Eyoo, President of the Calabar South Traditional Rulers Council, stated that the traditional institution is pleased to support the state’s cocoa revolution.