Nigeria’s cashew industry has generated over $500m in export earnings, contributing to the country’s non-oil revenue. However, industry leaders say the sector can do more with increased production, processing, and domestic consumption.
The country produces over 450,000 tons of cashew but processes only 20-30% of it. Leaders urge more value addition, boosting local consumption, and government support to address low processing capacity. “We can do more,” says Sheriff Balogun, President of the Federation of Agricultural Commodity Associations of Nigeria. “With adequate planning, we can move production to $3m.”
Value addition can multiply earnings and create jobs. “If we add value, we’ll make more than five times what we’re making now,” Balogun adds. Local consumption is key, with a huge domestic market of over 200 million people.
Nigeria aims to reclaim its position as a leading global cashew producer, leveraging its resources and weather. Cashew is now one of Nigeria’s top non-oil exports, with exports rising 80% year-on-year in early 2025.
Challenges include poor data and weak export monitoring. The National Cashew Association of Nigeria is introducing a new system to improve data accuracy.
With government support, Nigeria’s cashew industry can unlock its full potential, driving economic growth and job creation 💡.
