Cashew nuts
By BARBARA KALU, Owerri –
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has announced that Imo State recorded $8.6 million in export earnings from cashew production in the 2024 fiscal year.
The Executive Director of NEPC, Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, disclosed this at a workshop on cashew production in Owerri.
Ayeni emphasized the importance of boosting cashew production for sustainable growth in the sub-sector. “Boosting cashew production is key to achieving sustainable growth in the sub-sector,” she said, commending cashew farmers in Imo State for their resilience despite challenges.
Value Chain Opportunities
The NEPC boss highlighted the various products that can be derived from the cashew value chain, including wine, and commended the state’s cashew farmers for their efforts.
“We have facilitated the purchase of 1,500 improved seedlings of cashew to be distributed to Okwudor and Okigwe farmers for value addition and export,” she revealed.
The Executive Director of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Umuahia, Dr. Patrick Adebila urged farmers to develop interest in cashew production.
He assured that CRIN would provide agronomic assistance and technical know-how to support interested farmers.
Ayeni thanked the Imo Government for providing an enabling environment for farmers and exporters to thrive.
The initiative is expected to further boost the state’s economy and provide more opportunities for its citizens.
