FIC Report (Ondo State) – Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa says Ondo State is strengthening efforts to meet international cocoa export standards through sustainable farming and anti-deforestation measures.
Speaking at an FAO workshop in Akure, the governor announced the inauguration of a committee to ensure compliance with the European Union Deforestation-Free Regulation for cocoa production.
He disclosed that about 14,000 cocoa and oil palm farmers across eight local government areas have been captured under the FAO-backed sustainability programme.
According to him, the initiative includes climate-smart agriculture training, agroforestry support, GIS mapping and restoration of degraded forest areas to improve access to premium global markets.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations commended Ondo State’s commitment to sustainable cocoa production and improved environmental management.
FAGOROYE FOLUKE
Information Officer
13th May, 2026
