The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed a Bill seeking to establish the Cross River State Tree Crops Development Agency to coordinate and promote the growth, production and marketing of tree crops across the State.
The Bill, sponsored by the Leader of the House and Member representing Odukpani State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo, was first read on April 28, 2026, and passed second reading on June 17, 2026, before being referred to the House Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources for detailed consideration.
Presenting the Committee’s report during plenary, the Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources and Member representing Boki 2 State Constituency, Hon. Bette Philip Obi, outlined the findings and recommendations arising from its consideration of the Bill and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Obi said the Committee conducted a public hearing on July 10, 2026, which attracted participation from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Commission, Cross River Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA), farmers’ associations, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
According to him, stakeholders generally supported the proposed legislation, expressing the view that a dedicated agency would provide a more coordinated framework for developing the State’s tree-crop sector.
He said the Committee identified cocoa, coffee, oil palm, cashew and rubber as major tree crops with strong economic potential, noting that Cross River possesses favourable soil and topographical conditions for agriculture but has lacked a dedicated institution to fully harness its tree-crop potential.
The Committee recommended amendments to strengthen the proposed Governing Board, including the inclusion of a representative of the Cross River Geographic Information Agency and an increase in the tenure of Board members from three to four years, with provision for renewal.
Contributing to the debate, Members said the proposed agency would strengthen the agricultural sector, improve productivity and provide a more coordinated framework for the development of tree crops and their value chains in the State.
Following consideration and adoption of the Committee’s report, the Bill passed third reading and was subsequently passed by the House.
The Bill, which comprises six parts and 28 sections, provides for the establishment and functions of the Agency, its Governing Board, management structure, funding and other related matters.
Commenting on the passage, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, commended Members, the Committee and stakeholders for their contributions to the legislative process, describing the Bill as an important step towards creating an institutional framework for the development of tree crops in Cross River.
Ayambem expressed optimism that the proposed Agency would provide greater support for farmers, encourage investment, improve productivity and strengthen the value chain for tree-crop products.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th Assembly to legislation aimed at expanding economic opportunities, strengthening agriculture and promoting sustainable development across the State.
By Itam Offor
