The Cocoa Research Institute was created to focus on the development and advancement of cocoa and other cash crops. Doing otherwise subjects it to unnecessary scrutiny.
In other words, when it diverts its resources to unrelated projects like street lighting, it strays from its core mission. This misallocation not only undermines the progress in agricultural research but also weakens the institute’s accountability to its core stakeholders—farmers, researchers, and the agricultural community.
Funding for projects outside its primary mandate, such as the reported allocation for Lagos streetlights, raises questions about transparency and efficiency. Such diversions can result in the neglect of essential research projects that are vital for improving the quality and yield of cocoa, a significant export for Nigeria. By focusing on its primary objectives, the institute can contribute more meaningfully to national economic growth through enhanced cocoa production.
Moreover, with global competition increasing, Nigeria’s cocoa sector cannot afford to lose ground. Engaging in non-core projects hampers the ability of the institute to respond to challenges in the sector, such as climate change, pest control, and improving farmer productivity. Allocating funds and effort towards these areas is crucial for strengthening the industry and ensuring its sustainability.
Earlier, a civic-tech non-profit organisation, BudgIT had indicted the Research Institute on its X account saying it got N250 million for solar street lights in some areas of Lagos in the 2024 budget.
BudgIT had raised concerns over the institute’s plans to fund unrelated projects like solar street lights, a health centre and motorcycles in Lagos, Ondo, Rivers and Osun.
The involvement of the Cocoa Research Institute in non-related ventures also dilutes its research capabilities. The institute should instead concentrate on technological innovations, cocoa quality improvement, and providing farmers with the tools to compete globally. Therefore, diversifying into unrelated sectors risks diminishing the quality of its research and its ability to deliver tangible agricultural outcomes.
Staying true to its mandate will not only benefit cocoa farmers but also bolster Nigeria’s agricultural exports and economic resilience. Cocoa research institutes around the world maintain strict focus on their primary objectives to remain competitive. Nigeria’s institute must follow suit to ensure it remains relevant and effective.
Disengaging from unrelated projects like streetlights and prioritizing agricultural research will help the Cocoa Research Institute achieve its goals. By focusing on core cocoa development, the institute can ensure long-term contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural growth and global competitiveness.
