The Cross River State Government has partnered with Kwara State-based agribusiness firm JR Farms to establish a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation across all 18 local government areas (LGAs) of Cross River over the next five years.

Founder of JR Farms, Mr Olawale Rotimi-Opeyemi, revealed the initiative during a press briefing in Ilorin, stating that the project aims to strengthen Nigeria's coffee value chain and position Cross River as a leading coffee-producing state. The venture will focus on sustainable cultivation, processing, and export of coffee to boost the region's agricultural output.

The collaboration involves working closely with the Cross River State Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development. Mr Rotimi-Opeyemi noted that preparatory groundwork has already begun, including community visits with the state's Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, and other stakeholders to engage farmers and local authorities.

The project, set to launch in the coming months, seeks to create jobs, enhance rural livelihoods, and contribute to national food security through agricultural diversification.

During a meeting with the Acting Governor of the state, Dr Peter Odey, last Friday to discuss the initiative, Olawale stated that the partnership aligns with his company's mission to revolutionise agribusiness through sustainable partnerships and impactful investments.

“As a state with both highlands and flatlands, a temperate climate, good soil, water bodies, and large agrarian communities, Cross River is uniquely positioned to grow both Arabica and Robusta coffee and become a leading coffee producer and exporter in Nigeria,” he stated.

The JR Farms CEO further revealed that the initiative would commence with the cultivation of Arabica coffee in Boki and Obanliku Local Government Areas, as these regions possess the necessary highlands and favourable climatic conditions for optimal coffee growth.

Also speaking, Hon. Ebokpo expressed optimism that the initiative would enhance the state's agricultural output, create employment opportunities, attract investment in the coffee production industry, and position Cross River as a leading producer of high-quality coffee beans in Nigeria.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government's commitment to fostering collaborations that drive economic growth and sustainable development.

“The development of a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation will not only boost Cross River's agricultural economy but also create jobs for thousands of our people, especially in rural communities. We are committed to supporting initiatives that enhance our state's economic diversification,” he said.