Kogi state government has affirmed its commitment to boost production, trade, quality, and farmer income in the cashew value chain.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo made this known during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the state government and Agro Trading Consult Limited (ATCL) in Lokoja on Tuesday.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Mrs. Folashade Ayoade, the Governor noted that his administration is aware of the state’s cashew potentials, hence the engagement of a technical consultant that will help harness the potential.
“Kogi state is blessed with abundant resources, ranging from agro-products to solid minerals. Also, we are blessed with human resources. We should make sure all these work for the people. Kogi has no reason to be poor if our natural resources begin to work for us. This agreement is a step forward to harnessing our potentials for the benefit of all,” he said.
According to him, government is serious about the implementation of the agreement, urging the Consultant to hit the ground running with immediate effect.
Governor Ododo said henceforth, anyone interested in Kogi’s cashew should invest in processing the commodity within the state.
Director General of the Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Export Promotion and Market Development Agency (KOSCEPA), Chief Adewale Victor Omofaiye, said the MoU is in tandem with the agency’s mandate to improve food security within the state, establish a robust commodity exchange system, promote export opportunities for local producers, ensure farmers receive fair market prices for their goods, drive economic growth and increase internally generated revenue through commodity and mineral development.
He disclosed that two firms have indicated interest in establishing cashew processing factories in Kogi state.
Chief Omofaiye stated that as from 2026, the state government will implement new policies on cashew value chain to ensure farmers maximize profit and ensure creation of jobs.
“We are not only focusing on cashew, we are also looking into other commodities that God has blessed the state with such as cassava, rice, sorgum that are produced in large quantity,” he said.
Managing Director of Agro Trading Consult Limited, Dr. Jude Osilama described the agreement as a new dawn as it will improve productivity, and enhance the cashew value chain in the state.
Dr. Osilama stated that with the introduction of customized jute bags, cashew produced in Kogi state will now have international recognition, noting that it will also help to ascertain the quality and quantity of cashew produced in the state.
Citing a recent executive order by Governor Ododo, he said the MoU entered into will guarantee an end to the exploitation of foreign cashew merchants.
He said intending buyers will no longer have direct access to Kogi cashew farm gate but will now have to go through licensed and registered local merchants.
“We will empower our citizenry, especially in the East. Going forward, all cashew nuts must be sundried in Kogi before it leaves our lands. This benefits of this part of cashew value chain will further empower our people,” he said.
He added that the state government is also planning to plant 15 million of cashew trees as from next year to boost the quantity of the commodity in the state.
