Belgium discloses plan to boost cocoa production in Nigeria

Belgium is setting its sights on boosting cocoa production in Nigeria.

This was revealed by the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at his palace in Oke Aremo, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday.

Ambassador Leenknegt emphasized that one of the primary objectives of his visit was to explore ways to improve agriculture, trade, and finance between Nigeria and Belgium. He expressed his eagerness to learn from the traditional ruler’s experiences, saying, “So, I am glad to be here and I will also be glad to have words of wisdom from you that will guide me for a successful tenure in office.”

During the meeting, the Olubadan, represented by the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, highlighted the agricultural potential of the region. He informed the ambassador that Ibadan boasts ample arable land, ideal for agricultural endeavors. “There are vast hectares of arable land, and it requires international partnership, funding, and support to boost food production in the country,” he stated.

The Olubadan extended an invitation to potential investors, urging them to seize the opportunity presented by the fertile lands in Ibadan, suitable for agriculture. He specifically mentioned areas with significant agricultural potential, including Egbeda, Ona Ara, Oluyole, Ido, Lagelu, and Akinyele Local Government Areas.

Accompanying the ambassador were Genco Sanli, the embassy’s advisor in economic diplomacy for Nigeria, and Florence Oke, from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the two nations in advancing agricultural production.