Olubadan Partners With Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria to Launch Modern Cocoa Plantation in Ibadan
Ibadan, Nigeria — January 28, 2026 – In a strategic move to revive cocoa production and unlock agricultural value for local economies, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has announced a collaborative plan with the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) to establish a modern cocoa plantation in Oyo State’s capital.
The traditional ruler made the announcement during a high-level meeting with the management team of CRIN, inviting experts from the institute to deliberate on the development of a commercial scale cocoa plantation that will leverage cutting-edge agricultural technologies and research-backed practices.
Revitalizing Cocoa Agriculture Through Innovation
Oba Ladoja emphasized that Ibadan’s geographic advantage and proximity to CRIN’s research base position the ancient city to become a key centre for cocoa productivity and agribusiness value chains. The plantation is expected to harness scientific best practices from CRIN — including improved seedlings, pest-resistant varieties, and efficient farm systems — to drive higher yields and economic opportunities for youth, smallholder farmers, and agribusiness investors.
“The land is here; the expertise is here,” the Olubadan noted, underlining the need for strategic public-private partnerships and community-driven agricultural engagement that will strengthen Nigeria’s cocoa sector.
CRIN’s Mandate in Context
Established in Ibadan, Oyo State on December 1, 1964, CRIN is the Federal Government research institute responsible for advancing cocoa, kola, coffee, cashew and tea production in Nigeria. Its mandate includes improving genetic varieties, developing agronomic practices, and innovating value-add technologies aimed at boosting productivity and supporting rural livelihoods nationwide.
The institute’s work underpins Nigeria’s efforts to compete globally in cocoa markets, increase export earnings, and foster sustainable agricultural development.
Why the Initiative Matters for Nigeria Forward
Nigeria’s cocoa industry once ranked among Africa’s top producers. However, challenges such as aging plantations, limited commercialisation, and underinvestment have seen the country fall behind key competitors like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. Modern plantation models rooted in science-based research, extension support, and public-private partnerships offer a path to reinvigorate the sector.
By aligning traditional leadership, research institutions and community resources, the Ibadan-CRIN collaboration could catalyze:
- Job creation in rural economies
- Youth engagement in agribusiness careers
- Increased cocoa export volumes and value addition
- Strengthened food security and farmer incomes
This initiative reflects a renewed focus on policies and partnerships that will move Nigeria forward through agricultural innovation and economic diversification.
