Director of Private Sector Development, Ms. Mary Adazanyo has said that Nigeria’s new National Cashew Research Strategy is critical to scaling the country’s cashew output from 400,000 to 700,000 metric tonnes annually.
Speaking at the official launch event in Abuja, Ms. Adazanyo emphasized that Nigeria’s ambitions in the global cashew industry hinge on science-backed innovation and investment in knowledge systems.
“As it stands, we are producing around 400,000 metric tonnes annually, but our target is to scale up to 700,000 metric tonnes per year. Achieving this goal depends heavily on investment in research and development,” she said.
She described the cashew industry as “very important and vibrant,” noting Nigeria’s current position as the sixth-largest global producer and its strategic role in international cash crop markets.
The newly launched strategy—developed in partnership with Science Institute of Nigeria and the German development agency GIZ—marks Nigeria’s first cohesive national blueprint for cashew research.
Key focus areas include:
* Enhancing agronomic practices
* Building resilience to climate change
* Expanding local processing capacity
* Strengthening human capital in the sector
Ms. Adazanyo stressed that research will be the cornerstone of success, citing the need for scientific insights into plant geometry, optimal tree density per hectare, and cashew byproduct innovation.
She also expressed appreciation to her team and stakeholders, including the Police Service of Nigeria, for their support in compiling the strategy, which is expected to guide researchers, policymakers, farmers, and investors.
