In a bold step toward transforming its agricultural sector and tapping into the lucrative global cashew market, the Enugu State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) for the establishment of a pre-fabricated Domestic Export Warehouse at the Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo.
The groundbreaking initiative, which covers 5 hectares of land, underscores Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to leveraging agriculture as a cornerstone of economic growth and job creation in the state. This move is part of Mbah’s ambitious vision to grow Enugu’s economy to $30 billion in six years, with agriculture serving as a key driver.
Harnessing Enugu’s Cashew Potential
The cashew industry, valued at over $7 billion globally, offers immense opportunities for states like Enugu with fertile land and a climate conducive to cashew production. Governor Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration with NCAN, describing it as a value-adding partnership that will create jobs, increase GDP, and strengthen the state’s position in the agricultural value chain.
“With over six local government areas in Enugu State suited for cashew production, this collaboration ensures that cashew farming and processing are given the attention they deserve,” Onyia said. “By processing cashews locally, we can significantly boost our GDP while creating transformative job opportunities for our people.”
The warehouse, once completed, will serve as a hub for aggregating cashew produce from farmers, streamlining the supply chain, and facilitating export opportunities.
NCAN’s Vision for Enugu
The President of NCAN, Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing the potential it holds for revitalizing the cashew industry in the region. Dr. Ajanaku acknowledged the governor’s forward-thinking approach, which he said aligns with NCAN’s mission to elevate cashew farming and processing across Nigeria.
“We deemed it fit to collaborate with Enugu State on this Domestic Export Warehouse project to support farmers, encourage them to produce more, and make it easier for processors and exporters to access quality cashew,” Dr. Ajanaku said.
Beyond the warehouse, NCAN is exploring additional opportunities to partner with the state to rejuvenate the moribund Premier Cashew Industry Limited at Akama Oghe. According to Ajanaku, reviving this facility could position Enugu as a major hub for cashew processing and export in Nigeria.
“We thank the Enugu State Government for this opportunity and promise that we will deliver on our commitments. This partnership is not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering farmers, creating wealth, and contributing to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation,” he added.
Unlocking Opportunities for Farmers
At the heart of the partnership is the desire to empower local farmers. The Domestic Export Warehouse will serve as an anchor, helping small-scale farmers aggregate their produce and gain access to both local and international markets. By cutting out middlemen and creating a seamless export system, farmers will earn more from their efforts, encouraging them to expand production.
Additionally, the initiative will enhance Enugu’s status as a key player in the agricultural value chain while attracting private investment to the state.
Reviving the Economy through Agriculture
Governor Mbah’s focus on agriculture as an enabler of economic growth is evident in this strategic partnership. With NCAN’s expertise and the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment, Enugu is well-positioned to maximize its agricultural potential.
The NCAN collaboration comes alongside another significant MoU signed with Fungtai Engineering Ltd. to produce cash crops on 7,221 hectares of land at Ugwujoro, Nimbo, in Uzo-Uwani LGA. Together, these initiatives are set to transform Enugu into a hub for agro-industrialization, contributing significantly to the state’s GDP and creating thousands of jobs.
As the partnership with NCAN takes shape, it is clear that Enugu State is poised to lead the way in agricultural innovation and economic transformation. The future looks promising for farmers, investors, and the state as a whole.
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