Abuja: The National Apex of Cashew Farmers, Processors and Marketing Cooperative Ltd. has announced its focus on enhancing the processing of raw cashew nuts to empower rural cashew farmers, processors, and marketers, thereby boosting Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. Mr. Yunusa Enemali, the President of the cooperative, highlighted these initiatives during a news conference held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Enemali emphasized that the efforts would involve collaboration, capacity building, and advocacy. He noted the significant role the cashew sector plays in poverty reduction among farmers and other stakeholders, while also promoting the diversification of agricultural education exports. Enemali pointed out the opportunities for women and youth inclusion within the industry, which also supports the processing of various cashew-based products for local consumption.
Enemali acknowledged the potential of Nigeria’s cashew sector and its value chain, particularly in rural areas. Despite being one of the largest producers of cashew nuts globally, the industry faces challenges such as limited access to finance and markets, inadequate infrastructure and technology, pest and disease management issues, and a lack of policy framework. He also highlighted the need to address issues related to quality research institutes, quality assurance, and standardization to unlock the sector’s full potential.
The benefits of the cashew sector are substantial, contributing to economic growth, wealth, job creation, and increased foreign earnings. Enemali reiterated the cooperative’s mission to empower rural cashew farmers, processors, and marketers through collaborative efforts, capacity building, and advocacy, with a vision to position Nigeria as a leading cashew-producing and processing nation.
Enemali announced that the cooperative would host its first National Cashew Summit from August 13 to 15 in Abuja, marking a significant step toward promoting the growth and development of Nigeria’s cashew industry. The summit aims to bring together stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the sector.
Mr. Idris Sani, Federal Director of Cooperative, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, remarked on the economic value of cashew, noting its potential for processing into various products like juice and biscuits. He emphasized the need to increase production due to the commodity’s nutritional and economic value.
Mr. Emmanuel Atama, Executive Secretary of the National Cooperative Financing Agency of Nigeria, stated the cooperative’s goal to boost cashew production and transition from crude to refined production methods.
