National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) has distanced itself from a publication credited to Cashew Processors and Packers Association of Nigeria (CAPPAN), describing the claims as misleading and inconsistent with realities of Nigeria’s cashew sector.
In a statement by its National President, Dr. Joseph Ajanaku, NCAN said it decried the publication attributed to CAPPAN regarding the state of the cashew industry.
The association said it was compelled to provide clarity, reaffirm facts, and ensure that public discourse reflects realities of the industry and efforts required to move it forward.
It said NCAN, set up over two decades ago, is the only umbrella body recognised by Federal Government, international partners, and global trade bodies as representing Nigeria cashew value chain.
“NCAN is the duly recognised apex body for Nigerian cashew value chain,” it said, listing its mandate as coordinating national cashew policies, supporting farmers, strengthening export competitiveness, facilitating international cooperation, and promoting market stability.
“This mandate remains intact, active, and fully operational,” it added.
NCAN warned that attempts to create division within the cashew industry could undermine Nigeria’s competitiveness at a time global market conditions demand unity.
“The global cashew environment demands collaboration among stakeholders, not competition for recognition or attempts to fragment the sector,” the statement read.
The body noted its achievements, including stabilising farmgate prices, strengthening ties with FMITI, NEPC, states, and international bodies, such as VINACAS and AICA, as well as promoting investment ahead of 2026 season.
NCAN also cited implementation of farmer support programmes and stakeholder consultations aimed at deepening value-chain cohesion.
The Association reiterated its support for federal and state policies designed to enhance local processing capacity, protect farmers from exploitative pricing, encourage exporters, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global cashew market.
Such policies, it insisted, “must be evidence-based, transparent, and in the best long-term interest of the Nigerian economy, not driven by narrow or foreign-influenced agendas.”
Contrary to what it described as “alarmist portrayals,” NCAN said Nigeria’s cashew industry is experiencing positive growth indicators.
According to the Association, the sector has recorded improved export performance, increased processing investments, growing farmer participation, stronger international partnerships, and renewed attention from government.
“With proper coordination, which NCAN continues to lead Nigeria is positioned for significant growth in 2026 and beyond,” it noted.
The Association cautioned that public statements capable of creating fear or undermining national institutions could erode investor confidence.
“Public statements that create fear, distort facts, or seek to discredit national institutions only weaken investor confidence and undermine years of progress,” it said, urging CAPPAN and other stakeholders to channel concerns through established industry platforms and government-recognized mechanisms.
Describing the cashew sector as a strategic national asset, NCAN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting farmers and processors, promoting competitiveness, strengthening value addition, and ensuring long-term industry stability.
“With unity, discipline, and collaboration, Nigeria can become Africa’s leading cashew-producing and processing nation,” the Association declared.
“Courtesy – THE NATION”
https://thenationonlineng.net/ncan-were-nigerias-apex-cashew-body/