With the global coconut products market projected to hit $38.58 billion by 2030, driven by its demand in the food and cosmetics sectors, the Lagos State government is pushing for increased coconut seed farms to boost production for both local consumption and export.
Research and Markets, a global intelligence firm based in Dublin, Ireland, reports that the coconut water segment is set for the fastest growth. This surge is attributed to the rising trend of healthy lifestyle choices and the increasing use of coconut products in the food and beverages industry due to their health benefits and functional properties.
Prince Dapo Olakulehin, General Manager of the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA), highlighted the state’s recent achievements. “Over the past two years, we have successfully completed the coconut value chain assessment initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO),” he said. The comprehensive study, conducted in 2022 and 2023, covered all parts of the state.
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The resulting report, which outlines a 10-year coconut value chain upgrade strategy, was presented to the government. Development partners like the UNDP, IFAD, and FAO are expected to provide grants, while the Lagos State government will contribute counterpart funding throughout the project’s duration.
LASCODA is also actively training coconut farmers in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to enhance productivity and sustainability. “Our goal is to not only maintain but regain our status as a leading producer of high-quality coconuts,” Olakulehin added.
The state has supported both edible and non-edible coconut processors with capacity-building programs and certifications needed for entry into European and American markets.
These efforts have already led to the export of processed coconut products, marking a significant milestone for the state’s economy. In addition, the government continues to provide coconut processors with modern equipment, further strengthening their capacity to compete globally.
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