The Nigerian Export Promotion Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the Ogun State Government to create a favourable environment for the cashew industry in Nigeria.
In a statement by the Ogun state Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, during a one-day intervention programme and distribution of cashew seedlings to farmers, organised by NEPC in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, the government reaffirmed its commitment.
Recall that the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) had said the country in three months ending June 2024 exported cashew nuts in shells and Cashew nuts shelled worth over N228.97bn.
Onasanya said the programme is pivotal in positioning Ogun State as a key player in Nigeria’s cashew export market, contributing to the nation’s economy and strengthening the implementation of the One State, One Product initiative under the State Committee on Export Promotion.
He said, “Cashew has long been a crop of economic importance in Ogun State, as it can significantly contribute to the state’s revenue, create jobs, and promote sustainable development in our rural communities”.
Subsequently, he noted that One Product Initiative would address issues around capacity building and training, and enhance infrastructure and technology while enabling swift market access and information for the cashew farmers to foster a business-friendly environment.
The NEPC Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Nonye Ayeni, represented by NEPC Director of Product Development, Mrs Evelyn Obidike, said the council is not resting on its oars.
She said the council is poised to move cashew production to an enviable height with the One State, One Product initiative in the states.
In his goodwill message, the Akarigbo of Remo Land, HRM Babatunde Ajayi, represented by Elemunren of Emuren HRH, Adesegun Alowole, eulogised the state government for the synergy with NEPC to increase cashew production in the state and solicited for more interventions to support the farmers in all local government areas of the state,the statement on Wednesday read.
