Companies trading in Cocoa in Ekiti State have been called upon to assist the State Government in its industrialization drive by establishing cocoa processing industries.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Gboyega Isijola made the call while addressing representatives of Olam Nigeria Limited who paid him a visit in Ado.

Dr. Isijola said the establishment of such companies in the State will boost cocoa production, curb smuggling as well as provide employment for the youths.

He promised that the Government will always support any initiative that would promote economic activities in the State.

In his contribution, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr.Lekan Ayeleso called on the company to assist farmers with chemicals and cocoa seedlings.

Earlier, the representative of the company, Mr. Prakash Kanth called on the State Government to allocate land for the company, proposed cocoa plantation.