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.
It said this in a statement by the Ogun state Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, who spoke during a one-day intervention programme and distribution of cashew seedlings to farmers, organised by NEPC.
Recall that the National Bureau of Statistics had said the country in three months exported cashew nuts 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.”
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 poised to move cashew production to an enviable height with the One State, One Product initiative in the states.