NCAN distributes cashew seeds to farmers

The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) on Monday said that it had started distribution of high-yielding seeds to farmers and residents who wish to venture into cashew production.

NCAN’s spokesman, Mr Sotonye Anga, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the seeds have a maximum maturity period of two years.

Anga said the demand for Nigeria’s cashew was enough to motivate Nigerians and government to take cashew production seriously.

“We want to urge more Nigerians to take to cashew farming in the next planting season due to commence in June.

“From findings, the quickest way to venture into profitable business is to start a cashew farm on an expanse of land like 100 hectares anywhere in Nigeria.

“We will support that farmer with premium quality high-yielding seedlings which we are currently distributing to already existing and intending farmers,’’ he said.

Anga said that the first 100 days of the year elapsed on April 10, urging Nigerians to take action to further promote government’s diversification drive from oil.

“By July 10, we would have used up another 100 days in this year; that would make 200 days, so, we want people to get serious and take immediate action.

“There is a ready market for cashew because the demand for Nigerian cashew is increasing by the day, “ Anga said.