The Cross River State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development, has commenced a statewide training programme for prospective coffee farmers, extension officers, and other stakeholders in the coffee value chain ahead of the distribution of improved coffee seedlings scheduled to kick-off from July 1, 2026.
The training, which began at the Bekwarra Local Government Council Hall, Abuochiche, for participants from the Northern Senatorial District, recorded an impressive turnout of traditional rulers, community leaders, farmers, and women.
In an opening address, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Prof. John Shiyam, highlighted the economic potential of coffee and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing the state’s agricultural resources through investment in the coffee value chain.
Prof. Shiyam commended the turnout, especially the participation of women, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to inclusiveness. He urged participants to pay close attention as they would serve as trainers to other farmers in their communities.
The Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Hon. Sir Egbung Odama, described the initiative as a demonstration of Governor Bassey Otu’s vision for agricultural development and encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training.
The workshop featured both theoretical and practical sessions covering site selection, land preparation, planting, farm management and other agronomic practices.
Participants also engaged the facilitators in interactive sessions where their concerns were addressed.
Following the field demonstration, the Chairman and other stakeholders planted coffee seedlings to demonstrate their commitment to coffee value chain development.
The government team in attendance included the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tree Crops, Mr. Fidelis Effa, and technical directors of the Ministry.
As the training continues in the Central and Southern Senatorial Districts on Thursday 25th and Saturday 27th July 2026 respectively, prospective coffee farmers are encouraged to join the coffee revolution of Governor Bassey Otu and secure a prosperous future by making payment for coffee seedlings at the subsidised rate of ₦300 per seedling and preparing their land ahead of distribution.
Account Details:
CRS Ministry of Agriculture Coffee Development,
Zenith Bank: 1229949071
From Blessing Enagu
