The President of the National Apex of Cashew Marketers and Processors Cooperative, Cashewapex, Yunusa Gabriel Enemali, has lauded the National Assembly over the bill for The National Cashew Production and Research Institute (Establishment) Bill. The bill, sponsored by Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, successfully passed its first reading in the Senate.
“If the bill becomes law, the institute will play a vital role in enhancing cashew production, processing, and research,” Enemali said. “This will not only improve the quality of cashew products but also provide support to farmers and cashew business owners in Kogi State, particularly in Kogi East, which is known for its high cashew production.”
The proposed institute is expected to have a significant impact on the cashew industry in Nigeria. With improved research and development, enhanced extension services, value-added products, market access and research, capacity building, and improved policy formulation, the institute will boost cashew production and its value chain.
This, in turn, will enhance productivity, value addition, and market access, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Enemali commended Senator Echocho for his thoughtfulness, noting that the institute will attract investment, create jobs, and ensure better pricing for cashew farmers, thereby strengthening the local economy in Kogi East, Kogi State, and Nigeria at large. The senator’s initiative is a welcome development for the cashew industry, and it is expected to have far-reaching benefits for farmers, business owners, and the broader economy.
The Cashewapex boss also expressed the preparedness of his Cooperative to actively partner with the institute when fully realized towards achieving the vision and mission of Cashewapex. This partnership will likely facilitate the institute’s goals and ensure that the benefits of the proposed institute are fully realized.
By working together, Cashewapex and the National Cashew Production and Research Institute can drive growth and development in the cashew industry, ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s economic prosperity.