Abstract
The Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State, Nigeria, possesses significant agricultural potential, yet its suitability for cocoa production remains largely unexamined. This study assessed the Plateau’s soils for cocoa cultivation, with implications for income generation, employment, and agro-industrial development. Twelve soil profile pits were established across the area, described, and sampled by paedogenetic horizons. Analyses followed the FAO Land Suitability Evaluation Protocol. Most soils were deep (>150 cm), except for profile pit 03, which was shallow. Textures ranged from sandy clay loam to clay loam, with moderately to slightly acidic pH (5.61–6.18). Organic carbon was generally low (0.07–0.26 %), while cation exchange capacity (7.00–20.02 cmol kg−1) and base saturation percentage (61.35–80.02 %) were moderate to high, aligning with cocoa nutrient demands. Climate and topography were optimal; however, drainage varied, with three profiles poorly drained. Actual suitability classes were largely marginal (S3), with fertility and texture as limiting factors, and drainage issues reducing suitability to N1 in some areas. Nonetheless, potential ratings improved substantially to S2 or S1 with targeted management, including organic matter incorporation, non-acidifying fertilisers, and drainage enhancement. Productivity index values ranged from 26.52 (S3) to 75.00 (S1), reflecting this potential. These findings highlight not only current limitations but also the transformative potential of well-informed, site-specific agricultural policy and practice in the Mambilla region. Supporting interventions such as soil-specific recommendations, subsidized inputs, and farmer training could operationalize these findings. Hence, incorporating geospatial tools and socioeconomic variables like land access and farmer capacity in future works would enhance relevance and adoption.