Top 10 Largest Cocoa Producing States in Nigeria
Unveiling Nigeria’s Cocoa Production Landscape
Cocoa, a vital cash crop, holds immense economic significance in Nigeria, historically contributing to foreign exchange revenue. As of 2025, Nigeria stands as a key global cocoa producer, with several states playing a pivotal role in cocoa cultivation. Let’s explore the top ten states leading the cocoa production charge in Nigeria.
Delving into Nigeria’s Rich Cocoa History
The roots of cocoa in Nigeria stretch back centuries, with initial farms established in areas like Bonny and Calabar in the 1870s. Over time, cocoa production expanded, particularly in the western region of Nigeria, which emerged as a prominent cocoa production hub.
The Leading Cocoa Producing States in Nigeria (2025)
1. Ondo State
– Production: 77,000 tons annually
– Overview: Ondo State reigns as Nigeria’s largest cocoa producer, with fertile lands in the rainforest zone supporting robust agricultural activities. Noteworthy cocoa-producing regions include Owo, Akure South, Idanre, Ondo West, and Odigbo.
2. Cross River State
– Insight: Cross River secures the second spot in cocoa production, with fourteen out of eighteen Local Government Areas (LGAs) engaging in commercial cocoa cultivation. Key contributing LGAs include Ikom, Etung, Obubua, and Boki.
3. Oyo State
– Contribution: Oyo State, a significant player in the western cocoa belt, boasts substantial cocoa output, bolstering the state’s revenue streams. The state’s expansive plantation coverage spans across all local government areas.
4. Osun State
– **Position:** Osun State ranks third in cocoa production within the South Western region, with a notable cocoa processing plant in Ede enhancing the state’s refining capabilities.
5. Akwa Ibom State
– Diversification: Akwa Ibom, known for its oil and gas reserves, has ventured into cocoa cultivation to diversify its agricultural portfolio. The state government’s support for local farmers has driven cocoa productivity.
6. Ogun State
– Prominence: Ogun State, nestled in the cocoa production zone of the southwest, hosts significant cocoa plantations across key Local Government Areas like Abeokuta North, Abeokuta South, Odeda, and Owode.
7. Delta State
– Dual Sector Strength: Delta State, recognized for its oil and agriculture sectors, thrives as a notable cocoa producer, contributing to the state’s agricultural prowess.
8. Ekiti State
– Strategic Role: Ekiti State emerges as a prominent cocoa producer, with cocoa cultivation prevalent across all sixteen local government areas, solidifying its position in Nigeria’s cocoa landscape.
9. Edo State
– Cocoa Contribution: Edo State actively engages in cocoa production, leveraging its agricultural potential to bolster cocoa output and boost internal revenue generation.
10. Kogi State
– Quality Focus: Kogi State, though with lower production volumes, excels in producing high-quality cocoa. The state’s agricultural productivity and quality focus position it as a key player in Nigeria’s cocoa industry.
Embracing a Cocoa-Rich Future
As Nigeria’s cocoa industry thrives, these top producing states play a pivotal role in sustaining the country’s position as a global cocoa powerhouse. With a focus on quality, productivity, and innovation, Nigeria’s cocoa sector is poised for continued growth and prosperity.
