The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Mohammad Mahmood –Abubakar, says Cashew nuts export from Nigeria generated over $250 million in 2022 and Cashew export is expected to fetch Nigerian farmers about $500 million in 2023 .
He said that the crop has become a priority crop.
Dr Ernest Umakhihe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, who spoke for the Minister, said at the Nigerian Cashew day and Cashew season flag- off with the theme: Industrializing the Nigeria Cashew Sector through Inclusive Policies,” on Tuesday.
“In Nigeria, Cashew is increasing in its importance as an export oriented cash crop since the 1990’s, it has become an important source of non-oil export earnings (estimated to represent over 10% GDP based on export data of 2022) becoming a commercial crop in Nigeria and is cultivated in 27 States including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
‘In realization of the importance of Cashew, the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development listed Cashew as a priority crop to be promoted under the Import Substitution Strategy of the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari.”
According to him, the Cashew Value Chain is among the crops being promoted under the Value Chain Programme of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
“The Ministry has carried out a number of activities over the years to promote the growth of the value chain in the Country including the distribution of improved seeds/seedlings to cashew farmers free of charge.
“Establishment of cashew cottage industries in some states, distribution of agro-chemicals/growth enhancers, carbon free jute bags, knapsack sprayers, water pumps to cashew farmers, conducting capacity building/training for Cashew farmers, and having sensitization exercises.
“I therefore, implore you to continue working together in harmony as this is the only way you can make positive impact towards sustainable development of the cashew industry and ensuring its contribution in achieving the overall goal of this Administration’s Economic Diversification Agenda.”he added
Mr Ojo Ajanaku, President , National Cashew Association of NIgeria (NCAN) said during his keynote address ,that Nigeria is steadily expanding, becoming export hub and taking over in the Countries FOREX trading over the last three years by at least 11 percent.
“This implies that the sector has the potential to drive National revenue generation, increase job creation and diversity the Economy.
He emphasized that more than 3million people in Nigeria, especially women has become Cashew producers and driving the sector among male counterparts.
He added that NCAN”s long term goal is to transform Nigeria from a low-priced Commodity producer to a reliable supplier and exporter of high quality cashew products and also adopt indigenous innovations and policies that will drive the sector.” he added.
