Abia State Governor Alex Otti has pushed for more cashew production as a way to generate foreign revenue and strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
The Governor who spoke in Enugu at the 2024 National Cashew Day/Conference, insisted that agriculture which cashew is an integral part of, “is one of the essential lubricants in the engine that will propel Nigeria into the much anticipated economic growth and development “.
According to him, both cashew and the agricultural sector generally “potentially hold the magic wand that will transform the economy of Nigeria and sub saharan Africa “.
Otti who was represented by his Special Adviser on Agriculture ,Dr Cliff Agbaeze lauded the concept behind the cashew Conference, noting that it was necessary to awaken the consciousness of government to the critical role cashew can play in the economy.
He expressed satisfaction with the theme of the conference, Transforming Nigeria Cashew Industry Through Technology, Innovation and Inclusive Policies, saying that such efforts were needed to reinvigorate the once lucrative cashew industry.
Otti challenged stakeholders at the event to generate new ideas, innovations and strategies to address the challenges of the cashew industry with a view to recovering its past glory and engender economic growth and development in Nigeria.
He averred that ” innovative and technology driven cashew industry can also provide a valuable platform for expansion outside domestic borders, and entering intra-regional and international markets “
The Governor lauded his Enugu State counterpart, Dr Peter Mbah for hosting the conference and the national president of National Cashew Association of Nigeria, Prince Dr Ojo Joseph Ajanaku for choosing to host the event in the south east.
He urged the participants to take advantage of the conference to maximise the opportunities presented, saying that Abia State was ready for ready for businesses as it has an expansive market for quicker, bigger and sustainable returns on investment.
Dr Alex Otti announced that his pledge to Abia people for a sustainable economic growth remains irrevocable.
He disclosed that he was working round the clock to put Abia in its pride of place in the world economy as the economic pride of Nigeria.