The National Association of Rubber Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NARPPMAN) has announced an ambitious plan for Nigeria to contribute at least 12 percent of global rubber production and position the commodity as a key driver of agricultural and industrial development.
Speaking on Thursday in Abakaliki during the inauguration of the Ebonyi State executive members of the association, the National President of NARPPMAN, Mr. Peter Idowu, said Nigeria has the land and resources to achieve the target with the right collaboration and policy framework.
“Our target is to contribute at least 12 per cent of global rubber production because Nigeria has enough land and resources to achieve it. We are poised to collaborate with government institutions, corporate organisations and international partners in building a resilient rubber value chain,” Idowu stated.
He explained that NARPPMAN is committed to reviving the rubber sector and restoring its place as a major export crop. Since its formation in 2019, the association has inaugurated 18 state chapters, with a plan to establish 24 across the country.
Mr. Jonathan Udu, Chairman of the Ebonyi chapter, described the inauguration as a milestone in Nigeria’s quest to diversify its agriculture sector.
He noted that rubber, once cultivated alongside cocoa and palm oil during the colonial era, has declined over the years despite its economic potential.
“Rubber still has immense potential to drive economic growth, create jobs and empower communities. We pledge to work with the national body, government and private sector to reposition rubber as a major agro-industrial product in Ebonyi,” Udu said.
In his remarks, Dr. Steve Odo, Director-General of the Ebonyi Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDA), assured farmers of government backing, stressing that rubber remains a strategic crop for economic diversification.
“The government will work with NARPPMAN to support farmers with inputs, extension services and access to markets,” he added.
Traditional institutions also pledged their support. Eze Charles Azuenya, the Traditional Ruler of Ebouwana Edda, offered to donate land for rubber cultivation, describing the initiative as historic for the state.
Industry stakeholders highlighted that Ebonyi could emerge as a hub for rubber production in the South-East if supported with farmer incentives and a comprehensive rubber development policy.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, represented by Chief Fidelis Mwankwo, welcomed the move and promised government partnership to boost plantation development.
The association emphasised that rubber cultivation can alleviate poverty, strengthen natural resource management, and enhance Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.
Globally, Côte d’Ivoire is Africa’s largest natural rubber producer, contributing about 12 percent of global output and producing 1.7 million metric tons in 2023. Nigeria, according to NARPPMAN, has the potential to match such performance if the sector is effectively repositioned.
