The Nation | 25 March 2025JR Farms, Cross River partner to develop 30,000 hectares of coffee plantation
A Nigerian-owned agribusiness firm, JR Farms, has entered a partnership with the Cross River Government to develop a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation across the 18 local government areas of the state over the next five years.
The Founder of JR Farms, Olawale Rotimi-Opeyemi, in a statement, explained the initiative was aimed at expanding the coffee value chain and position Cross River as a key player in Nigeria’s coffee production.
According to him, his firm will work with the Cross River State Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development on the initiative, which is to begin in the coming months.
In preparation for the commencement of the initiative, he with Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Ebokpo and other relevant stakeholders, visited some communities in the State where they had engagements with farmers and local authorities.
Olawale, who met with the Acting Governor, Dr. Peter Odey, last Friday to discuss the initiative, highlighted its potential to boost coffee production in Nigeria, adding that the partnership aligns with his company’s mission to revolutionise agribusiness through sustainable partnerships and impactful investments.
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“We are excited about this collaboration with the Cross River State Government. Coffee production presents a significant opportunity for economic transformation, and by leveraging Cross River’s rich agricultural resources, we aim to establish a robust coffee value chain that benefits local farmers and the broader economy.
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“As a state with both high lands and flat lands, temperate climate, good soil, water bodies and large agrarian communities, Cross River is uniquely positioned to grow both Arabica and Robusta coffee and become a leading coffee producer and exporter in Nigeria,” he stated.
The JR Farms CEO, however, revealed the initiative would commence with the cultivation of Arabica coffee in Boki and Obanliku local government areas as these regions possess the necessary highlands and favorable climatic conditions for optimal coffee growth.
On his part, Hon. Ebokpo expressed optimism that the initiative would enhance the state’s agricultural output, create employment opportunities, attract investment in the coffee production industry and position Cross River as leading producer of high-quality coffee beans in Nigeria.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to fostering collaborations that drive economic growth and sustainable development.
“The development of a 30,000-hectare coffee plantation will not only boost Cross River’s agricultural economy but also create jobs for thousands of our people, especially in rural communities. We are committed to supporting initiatives that enhance our state’s economic diversification,” he said.
