By: Erewunmi Peace

The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to developing the cashew value chain, aiming to position the state as a major hub for agro-processing, exports, and youth empowerment.

Speaking during a recent tour of agro-processing facilities, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the importance of shifting from raw cashew exportation to value-added processing, which he said will boost foreign exchange earnings and create thousands of jobs for young people in rural communities.

“Our focus is to industrialize the state by harnessing what we grow locally. Cashew is one of our greatest natural assets,” the governor said.

Cashew Processing Investment Takes Off

A major highlight of this initiative is the commissioning of Annie Glidden Commodities (AG) Nigeria Ltd, a multimillion-naira cashew processing plant located in Eiyenkorin, Ilorin. The plant is already providing direct and indirect employment to hundreds of locals and is expected to scale operations for export markets.

Empowering Farmers with Quality Seedlings

To support this drive, NGOs like Jife Foundation recently distributed over 10,000 Brazilian Jumbo cashew seedlings to farmers across Irepodun Local Government Area. The seedlings are part of efforts to:

Improve cashew yield per hectare

Promote sustainable farming practices

Encourage youth participation in agribusiness

Jife Foundation’s Executive Director said the move would create “new rural cooperatives and boost agro-based entrepreneurship.”

Economic Impact

Kwara’s cashew initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Zero Oil Plan, which seeks to diversify the economy through non-oil exports. Cashew alone contributes over $500 million annually to Nigeria’s foreign exchange, with Kwara and neighboring Kogi State leading in national production.

Focus Area Key Action

Cashew Processing AG Nigeria plant commissioned in Ilorin
Farmer Empowerment 10,000+ Brazilian jumbo seedlings distributed in Irepodun LGA
Job Creation Local employment through agro-processing and farm value chains
Export Growth Alignment with Zero Oil Plan and non-oil revenue strategy

Kwara State’s investment in the cashew value chain is more than agriculture — it’s a strategic move toward industrialization, employment, and global trade participation. The success of these efforts could redefine the future of agribusiness in Nigeria.