Nigeria’s coconut industry is positioned to generate over $250 million in revenue by year-end, as the Federal Government intensifies support for agricultural development, job creation, and rural economic transformation through targeted interventions and strategic partnerships.
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has committed to scaling up coconut production through infrastructure development, improved access to high-yielding varieties, and enhanced technical support for farmers. This initiative aims to transform rural economies while contributing significantly to national development objectives.
Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the sector’s potential during the launch of the 2025 coconut planting season. The event, themed “Coconut Revolution in Nigeria,” highlighted the industry’s capacity to provide sustainable livelihoods for over five million families nationwide.
“As an export commodity, coconut provides a sustainable means of livelihood for more than five million families across Nigeria. With projected revenue of over 250 million dollars by the end of 2025, the coconut value chain holds enormous potential for transforming rural economies, generating employment, and contributing to national development,” Ogunbiyi stated.
The coconut industry offers multiple benefits beyond food production, serving as raw material for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing industries. This diversification creates opportunities for value addition throughout the supply chain while supporting industrial development across various sectors.
Government interventions focus on improving market access, linking producers to local and international buyers, and ensuring comprehensive value addition. These efforts aim to maximize economic returns while building sustainable competitive advantages in global markets.
Dr. Okoroji Okechukwu, President of the National Coconut Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria, described the initiative as representing hope, transformation, and collective national ambition. The association plays a vital role in coordinating sector activities and promoting best practices among stakeholders.
“This revolution calls on each of us to harness the potential of our rich natural resources, drive innovation, and lead Nigeria towards sustainable growth and global prominence,” Okechukwu explained, emphasizing the strategic importance of the coconut industry in national economic development.
The COSIN initiative (Coconut Sufficiency in Nigeria) encompasses sustainable practices, technology-driven innovation, and value addition at every production stage. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen supply chains, improve processing capabilities, and ensure excellence in global market positioning.
Industry stakeholders are encouraged to embrace collaborative approaches, leveraging Nigeria’s fertile agricultural land to achieve global competitiveness. The government’s commitment to infrastructure development and capacity building provides a strong foundation for sustained sector growth and international market penetration.
About The Author
