Industry stakeholders have expressed concerns over low domestic consumption, limited processing of cocoa products, and data inadequacies affecting Nigeria's cocoa sector.

In a joint communiqué released by the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) and the Cocoa Roundtable Initiative (CORI) following the 3rd National Cocoa Festival in Calabar, Cross River State, key issues and recommendations were outlined to enhance the industry.

The festival, which attracted over 300 participants-including government officials, cocoa farmers, researchers, private sector representatives, and international partners-sought to clarify the roles of the National Cocoa Management Committee and other agencies in implementing the European Union's Deforestation Regulation.

The event also focused on developing sustainable production strategies, expanding the value chain, building partnerships and exploring youth-centred innovations.

Challenges identified include low domestic consumption of cocoa products, inaccurate data on production and value chains, stakeholders' limited knowledge of EU Deforestation Regulations, as well as ongoing agricultural and environmental issues impacting the sector's growth.

To address these concerns, stakeholders recommended prioritising local cocoa processing, improving data collection for the cocoa value chain, educating industry players on EU compliance requirements, and promoting sustainability initiatives.

They emphasised the need to eliminate adulterated agrochemicals, finalise and disseminate the national cocoa policy, update forest cover and land use maps, and establish stronger collaboration frameworks.