Nigeria's annual production of cashew nuts currently stands at 120,000 metric tonnes but is expected to more than triple in coming years due to renewed government interest. Cashew trees bear fruits after 3-4 years and can live for over 40 years. While initially grown to control erosion, cashew is now an economic crop for Nigeria providing edible nuts, fruit drinks, and industrial products from its various parts. Commercial cashew production is best in well-drained sandy or red soils.

1. By
Sotonye Anga
NATIONAL PUBLIC
RELATIONS OFFICER,
NATIONAL CASHEW
ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA
Email:anga4000@yahoo.com

2.  Nigeria’s annual production volume of
cashew currently stands at 120,000
metric tonnes of just the raw nuts.
 However, considering the renewed
interest of The Federal Government of
Nigeria on the sector this volume will
more than triple in coming years.

3. • Cashew is a tree crop.
• With evergreen leaves, all year round.
• It takes about 3-4 years from planting before
bearing fruits.
• Thereafter the tree can live 40 years and more.
• It was initially grown in Nigeria to control
erosion.
• Today it is an economic tree in Nigeria.
• Cashew nuts are harvested from the cashew
tree, a single nut is attached to a cashew apple.

5.  Cashew nut kernel ; edible oil, roasted
and eaten as nuts
 Shell ; production of cashew nut shell
liquid (CNSL) used in making corrosion
resistant vanishes, waterproof paint etc.
 Cashew apple ; fruit drink & juice
 Tree ; canopy / shade
 Roots ; erosion control & tropical
medicine

6.  Cashew trees have very extensive
root system which enables it to
tolerate a wide range of moisture levels
and soil types.
 However, commercial
production/planting of cashew is
advisable only in well-drained, sandy
loam or red soils.

8.  Trees are first line of defence against
desertification and erosion.
 It is an economic tree and so will
contribute to economic development.
 A source of nourishment.
 Beautify the environment.