The Kogi State government has received a call to embrace extensive palm oil production in order to increase the state's internally generated revenue. James Odiba, the Multi-Stakeholder Platform Coordinator for Solidaridad, made this appeal during a recent briefing in Lokoja, emphasizing the potential for revitalizing the sector through palm oil production.

Solidaridad, a regional-based organization focused on inclusive sustainable markets and development, is actively working with over 30,000 smallholder farmers in the production of palm oil across three local government areas in Kogi State: Dekina, Ofu, and Olamaboro. Odiba highlighted the importance of helping these farmers improve their livelihoods through increased palm oil production.

With palm oil prices currently valued at approximately $3,546 per ton in the international market, Solidaridad recognizes the potential for smallholder farmers and workers to benefit economically from increased productivity. However, despite the global demand for palm oil, the sector has not translated into significant returns for smallholders in Kogi, Nigeria, and the wider West African region.

Odiba expressed concerns about the sustainability challenges associated with palm oil production, including climate-related issues and environmental impact. He stressed the need for government intervention and collaboration to address these challenges and ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

The National Initiative for Sustainable Climate Smart Oil Palm for Smallholders (NISCOPS) Project was implemented in Kogi in 2020, specifically in the Ofu, Dekina, and Olamaboro local government areas, as a response to these concerns and challenges.

Representatives of smallholder farmers in the respective local government areas, including Amos Echu, Ibrahim Musa, and Mohammed Sani, provided firsthand accounts of their activities and expressed their appreciation for the support and initiatives of Solidaridad in improving and expanding palm oil production.

Akin Jimoh, the Director of Agriculture in the State Ministry of Agriculture, acknowledged the government's commitment to boosting oil palm production in the state. He commended Solidaridad for its intervention program, which has been ongoing for three years and has positively impacted the lives of farmers and the state's economy.

Jimoh assured Solidaridad of the Kogi State government's full support and cooperation in the project, recognizing its potential for enhancing the well-being of citizens, especially farmers, and contributing to the growth and development of the state's economy.