Which State is the Highest Producer of Cashew in Nigeria

Nigeria is one of the world's top five producers of cashew nuts, and its exports form a major part of the nation's revenue. As such, stakeholders and policymakers need to understand where this revenue comes from to facilitate development initiatives that can improve output.

This article will explore the Nigerian states producing the most cashews so that resources can be allocated correctly while highlighting an opportunity to create more jobs and improve market access.

1. Oyo State

Oyo state is the #1 leading state that produces nice cashew. Oyo State is one of the leading producers of cashew nuts in Nigeria. The state has a long history of cashew production, with farmers cultivating the crop for generations.

Also, the state produces over 10,000 metric tons of cashew nuts annually. In fact, Ogbomoso is home to the best cashew in the country, inviting foreign exports.

Furthermore, the state has a well-developed infrastructure. Thus, it facilitates the transportation of cashews to other parts of the country.

2. Kogi State

While Oyo leads this list, Kogi State is one of the leading producers of cashew nuts in Nigeria. Located in the North Central region, Kogi State has many cashew farms producing high-quality nuts for export. The state is also home to some of the largest cashew processing factories in the country, which helps to ensure that the quality and quantity of cashew produced meets international standards.

Kogi accounts for over 60% of Nigeria's cashew production, making it the highest producer of cashews in the country.

3. Kwara State

Kwara is also one of Nigeria's states with the highest cashew production. The state grows cashew in all sixteen local governments, which are all in large quantities. Every year, Kwara state produces about 55000 tons.

However, it has challenges, and the people believe only the government can help them. Kwara has little access to land to plant more cashew, no access to various cashew breeds, and no insurance.

To overcome these challenges, the government is trying its best to support the growth of the cashew industry in Kwara state. This includes providing financing, training, and extension services.

With continued support, the cashew industry in the state has the potential to play a significant role in the economic development of the area and the country as a whole.

4. Ekiti State

Ekiti state is in the southwestern part of Nigeria. The state is blessed with a tropical climate, ideal for cultivating cashew trees. Cashew production in Ekiti state dates back to the early 1970s when farmers planted the first cashew trees were planted. Since then, the state has become one of the largest producers of cashew nuts in Nigeria.

The cashew industry plays a significant role in the economy of Ekiti state. It employs thousands of people and generates income for farmers and other stakeholders. Also, the state government supports the cashew industry and has implemented policies and programs to promote its growth.

5. Enugu State

Enugu state is also one of the few states with the highest cashew production in Nigeria. The people of Enugu practice cashew cultivation mainly for cashew nut production. The cashew tree is grown in well-drained soils and warm climates. In Enugu State, they do cashew cultivation on small to medium-sized farms.

They process the cashew nuts to remove the toxins present in the hard shell. Then, they roast the processed nuts to improve the flavor.

As you step foot in Enugu, you'll be welcomed by various cashew nuts sellers, as the state's people cherish them as a snack food. They also use them in the preparation of various dishes.

6. Ondo State

Ondo state is in southwestern Nigeria and is one of the country's leading producers of cashew nuts. The state's cashew plantations cover an area of about 20,000 hectares, with an estimated annual production of around 120,000 metric tons.

Ondo state is also home to the country's largest cashew processing factory, which can process up to 60,000 metric tons of cashew nuts per year.

However, the recent decline in the price of cashew nuts has been a major blow to farmers. The government has now intervened by providing a subsidy on purchasing cashew nuts. This will help the farmers continue their operations and provide a reliable source of income for the state's people.

7. Niger State

Niger state is one of the top cashew-producing states in Nigeria. The state produces over 30,000 tonnes of cashew nuts annually. Also, the cashew industry in Niger state employs over 100,000 people.

The state government has been working hard to improve the cashew industry in the state. The state government has recently set up an authority to promote the industry. Moreover, they have provided financial help to farmers and processors to improve the quality of their products. Thus, it's expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

8. Osun State

Osun state is the largest producer of cashews in Nigeria, and the crop is grown in nearly all parts of the state. Small-scale farmers make up the majority of cashew producers in Osun, and they typically sell their nuts to larger buyers who then process and export them. Also, the cashew industry employs many people in Osun and is an important contributor to the state's economy.

Despite the importance of cashew production in Osun, the sector faces several challenges. Low cashew prices, poor infrastructure, and a lack of market access are all major obstacles to profitability. Besides, cashew trees are susceptible to pests and diseases, which can cause significant losses.

Despite the challenges, cashew production remains an important part of the economy in Osun state. Also, the state government is working to improve conditions for cashew farmers, and there is hope that the sector will continue to thrive in the years to come.

9. Kaduna

The last on our list of states with the highest cashew production in Nigeria is Kaduna. Kaduna state is in the north-central part of the country. It has a tropical climate and is rich in natural resources, including forests, minerals, and crops.

Cashew is one of the main crops grown in Kaduna state. The state produces over 80% of the country's cashew nuts. Kaduna state is also one of Africa's largest exporters of cashew nuts.

Kaduna state has been able to produce large quantities of cashew nuts. Thus, the state has become one of the major exporters of cashew in the country. The state government has also been providing various incentives to farmers to encourage them to increase production.

As a result of these efforts, Kaduna state has become one of Nigeria's most important cashew-producing states.

Conclusion

Nigeria is one of the world's leading producers of cashew nuts. Several states in Nigeria produce large quantities of cashews, including Niger, Osun, and Kaduna. We hope other states follow suit and increase their cashew production to help boost the country's economy.