A total of 1,578 Cocoa farmers from 28 communities in Osun State, have been rewarded with a cash sum of N40, 000 each for their commitment to sustainably producing the primary cash crop.

The gesture, courtesy of WACOT Limited, a member of Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, was given out to the farmers, in addition to the payments for the cocoa delivered to the company as part of the outgrower programme.

According to the company, the earned bonus was in recognition of the superior product quality delivered by the farmers to WACOT, which surpassed the international standards of sustainable cocoa production.

The standards include, but not limited to excluding child or forced labour, responsible use of fertilisers and pesticides, proper tree care, and preserving protected reserves.

The special quality bonus was distributed at the Cocoa Farmers Premium Payment Award event held at Akeredolu Community, Osun State.

In her remarks, the Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Manager of WACOT Limited, Yosola Onanuga, said the reward was given based on their yields contribution to the outgrower programme. “The farmers were awarded between ₦30,000 to ₦40,000, while some got as high as ₦100,000 based on their sustainable cocoa production.

“We are shifting our cocoa specification to achieve a responsibly managed supply chain complying with the legal requirements of Nigeria and our cocoa export markets. We stand by our goal of promoting sustainable cocoa production through several sustainability initiatives with our partners.”

The Chief Operating Officer of the firm, Bibhu Nanda,emphasised that the bonus were well-deserved for farmers who have embraced sustainable cocoa production in line with WACOT’s vision and international best practices.

He stated, “This funding from WACOT is intentional and will further motivate cocoa farmers to abandon harmful cultivation practices and adopt sustainable production. It underscores our commitment to sustainability and inclusivity as we work together towards profitability and growth optimisation.”

Nanda added that the award is a testament to WACOT’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic development by empowering cash crop farmers. “Our gesture aligns with TGI Group’s dedication to supporting the Federal Government’s National Economic Development Plans, which aim to diversify Nigeria’s economy and enhance food security.

“It also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (ending all forms of hunger), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), demonstrating TGI Group’s status as a responsible global corporate citizen.”

The beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the award, said it enabled them to enhance production. One of the recipients, Francis Sunday, conveyed trust in the firm and called for continued support. “I have been supplying cocoa to WACOT for years, and they have consistently supported us. This award will significantly boost my yield.

“I urge other companies and even the government to do more to encourage people to join the farming business.”