The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), in partnership with Hon. Paul Ekpo, has boosted palm oil production in Etinan Federal Constituency by providing 50 farmers with 100 oil palm seedlings each and ₦100,000 in cash.
NEPC's Executive Director, Mrs Nonye Ayeni, represented by Mr Ben Etegbe, said the initiative aims to position Nigeria as a global leader in palm oil production, urging beneficiaries to tap into the lifetime investment potential of the crop.
Nigeria currently produces about 1.2 million metric tons annually—far below its domestic demand of 2.5 million metric tons—leaving significant room for growth. Ayeni pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to transform the sector and reclaim Nigeria's export dominance.
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Hon. Ekpo encouraged farmers to cultivate, not sell, their seedlings, stressing that "no part of the oil palm is a waste" and predicting future millionaires from the programme. Beneficiaries were also trained on palm species, derivatives, planting techniques, and agribusiness management.
One recipient, Mr Emem Jimmy, said the support would promote self-reliance and called for a modern processing mill in the area.
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