Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun has said the state is resolved to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic diversification by boosting cocoa production and exports.

A statement by Olawale Rasheed, the governor’s spokesman, made available to journalists on Wednesday in Osogbo, quotes Mr Adeleke as saying this at the official unveiling of Gureje IV Chocolate in the United Kingdom.

Gureje IV chocolate is derived from cocoa produced in Eti-Oni, Osun State.

“Osun, being the third highest producer of cocoa in Nigeria, is ready to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s drive towards economic diversification,” the governor said.

Mr Adeleke also highlighted a comprehensive detail of his administration’s strategy to revive the cocoa sector, which started with the inauguration of the Osun Cocoa Revival Agenda in January.

“These action plans, when fully implemented, will directly eliminate all the challenges facing the cocoa sector and position it for economic sustainability.

“I emphasised the uniqueness of our cocoa being the traditional species that has the best taste in chocolate and other related products,” he said.

Furthermore, Mr Adeleke assured business friends in the UK and Commonwealth that Osun was ready for partnerships that would bring benefits to all stakeholders.

The governor also assured investors interested in investing in the cocoa value chain and other business ventures of the state’s support and of a conducive business environment.

He congratulated the Oloni of Eti-Oni, Oba Dokun Thompson Gureje IV, the co-founder of Gurege IV Chocolate, for the great achievement.

(NAN)