The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), a federal government agency, has achieved a significant milestone with annual cashew exports generating N41.27 billion in revenue. In a bid to further boost both domestic consumption and foreign exchange earnings, the NEPC is intensifying efforts to increase cashew production in Nigeria.
As part of this initiative, the NEPC organized a comprehensive training program for 100 cashew farmers in Imo State, one of the leading cashew-producing states in the country. Imo State alone accounts for over 1,000 metric tonnes of cashew produce annually, contributing significantly to the country’s overall export revenue.
The training, held at the NEPC’s office in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, aimed to equip cashew farmers with the necessary skills for commercial production and processing, specifically tailored for export purposes. The goal is to enhance foreign exchange earnings and boost local revenue through increased cashew exports.
Speaking at a quality improvement sensitization program in Owerri, Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director of the NEPC, emphasized the importance of the training in consolidating previous efforts in cashew production, processing, and exportation. Ayeni highlighted Nigeria’s status as the fourth-largest cashew producer globally and the leading producer in Africa, stressing the need to maintain this position and continue driving growth in the cashew industry.
