CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – In a major push to revitalise the coffee sector, the Cross River State Government has announced the distribution of one million high-yielding Arabica and Robusta coffee seedlings to farmers across the state at a subsidised rate of N1,000 per seedling.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development, is part of a collaborative agreement with French agricultural firm JR Farms to strengthen the coffee value chain in the state.
According to a press statement by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnison Ebokpo, on Friday, the move aims to provide farmers with access to quality seedlings, generate off-season income, and boost foreign exchange earnings through coffee exports.
“This initiative is not just about agriculture; it’s about economic empowerment. By supporting farmers with these high-yielding seedlings, we are opening new income streams and creating jobs for our teeming youth population,” Ebokpo stated.
To ensure effective and equitable distribution, the Ministry developed an allocation model that considers elevation, climate conditions, and soil quality. Arabica coffee, which thrives in highland regions, and Robusta coffee, suitable for lowland areas, will be distributed accordingly across the 18 Local Government Areas of the State.
In preparation for the rollout, 56 enumerators are undergoing training to profile interested farmers and organise them into cooperatives. The enumeration exercise, scheduled to run from 26th May to 9th June 2025, will involve a door-to-door registration process.
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The Ministry has appealed to lawmakers, government officials, community leaders, and civil society organisations to mobilise local farmers to participate in the programme.
“We urge all stakeholders to encourage farmers in their communities to get enumerated and benefit from this rare opportunity,” the Commissioner said, calling on the public to embrace the initiative for the state’s shared prosperity.
The subsidised coffee seedling programme marks a significant step in Cross River’s agricultural diversification and economic development strategy.
