Cross River State Partners with Pula Advisors to Boost Sustainable Farming and Global Market Access

In a major move to modernize its agricultural system, the Cross River State Government has partnered with Pula Advisors to help local farmers meet strict European Union standards on deforestation-free products. The focus will be on cocoa, coffee, and oil palm—three major crops in the state.

Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu described the move as a bold step toward securing the future of farmers in the state. “This partnership is about ensuring our farmers can compete globally by meeting the highest standards for sustainability,” he said.

This effort is part of the state’s 7-Year Agriculture Strategic Plan, aimed at developing a modern, climate-resilient agricultural sector. The plan includes improving data collection, enhancing land-use planning, and giving farmers better access to international markets.

With Pula Advisors on board, the project will deliver key tools like georeferenced maps, farm boundaries, and real-time land-use data. These will help track crop origins, verify sustainability claims, and reduce deforestation risks. The project is expected to wrap up by mid-2026.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Rt. Hon. Johnson Ebokpo, noted that compliance with EU rules will not only protect the environment but also empower local farmers. “It’s a chance to build a smarter, more competitive agricultural system,” he said.

Pula’s Country Director, Dr. Michael Enahoro, said his team is committed to building a world-class traceability system for the state. “We’re excited to support this vision with our experience and technology,” he added.

Prof. Susan Ohen, Chairperson of the State Multistakeholder Committee, praised Pula for their advanced tools in mapping, GPS tracking, and using AI to detect deforestation risks. She said the state is on track to become a leader in sustainable agriculture in Nigeria.