Aiyedatiwa announces new appointments, steps up cocoa production drive
By Boye Oyeyemi
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has constituted the Ondo State Cocoa Revolution and Management Board as part of efforts to reposition the agricultural sector and strengthen cocoa production across the state.
The appointments were announced in a statement issued on Friday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan. According to the statement, the board is expected to drive the administration’s Cocoa Revolution Agenda aimed at improving farmers’ livelihoods, attracting investment and restoring Ondo’s position as Nigeria’s leading cocoa-producing state.
The statement noted that the board will be responsible for coordinating policies, mobilising stakeholders, promoting innovation and enhancing value chain development within the state’s cocoa industry.
The newly constituted board has Mr Omolade Fabiyi as Chairman, while Alhaji Taiwo Ayoade, Dr Jibayo Oyebade, Hon. Augustine Oloruntogbe, Akinbola Omolade Franklin and Tope Oni will serve as members. Anthony Omolakin was appointed Secretary of the board.
Congratulating the appointees, Governor Aiyedatiwa urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by deploying their experience, integrity and expertise to deliver on the board’s mandate and transform the cocoa sector.
“I urge the members of the board to bring their wealth of experience, integrity and commitment to bear in delivering the mandate of the Cocoa Revolution and Management Board for the benefit of Ondo State,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting cocoa farmers through the provision of improved seedlings, easier access to finance, extension services and modern processing facilities to boost productivity and profitability across the value chain.
He expressed confidence that the board would stimulate investment, create employment opportunities, increase the state’s internally generated revenue and ensure sustainable growth for cocoa-producing communities across Ondo State.
