By Ojotule Romanus
A coalition of key cashew farmers, processors, and exporters under the auspices of Kogi State Committee on Cashew Export and Investment along with stakeholders from it’s national body, National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN), has promised to deliver one million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, in the 2027 elections.
The groups announced the endorsement during a meeting held with Governor Ododo in the Banquet Hall of Government House, Lokoja, Kogi state.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Kogi State Chairman of the Committee on Cashew Export and Investment, Dr. Idris Yakubu, cited the administration’s ongoing focus on agricultural revolution and the specific developmental projects within the cashew value chain as one of the reasons behind the declaration of confidence in the continuity of the current administration.
Dr. Yakubu noted that the administration’s policies on export facilitation and the recent stabilization efforts in the agricultural sector has provided much-needed relief to smallholder farmers; just as he pointed out that the efforts made towards the cashew value chain was well appreciated.
According to him, the support for President Tinubu was rooted in his vision for an export-led economy, where cash crops like cashew serve as a primary pillar for foreign exchange earnings.
The stakeholders lauded Governor Ododo for his initiatives aimed at improving rural infrastructure and providing logistical support to farmers in Kogi State, which remains one of the largest cashew-producing hubs in the country.
They emphasised that the Governor’s “continuity agenda”, was essential to finalize ongoing agricultural schemes that target increased yield and modern processing facilities.
In his address, Kogi State Director General Commodity, Exchange, Export Promotion and Market Development Agency, Hon. Victor Omafaye, desclosed that the endorsement was part of a strategic move by cashew stakeholders to consolidate gains in production capacity,
He further highlighted that the alignment with the leadership at both the federal and state levels has helped streamlined the distribution of inputs and improve access to global markets.
Hon. Omofaye further explained that the endorsement was tailored towards ensuring that the momentum gained in the last few years was sustained, calling on members nationwide to support the administration’s second-term bid to ensure that long-term agricultural reforms are fully implemented.
He used the occasion to appreciate government for the measures being put in place to protect farmers adding that the State Government was ever committed to ensuring improved cashew production in the state.
Responding, Governor Ododo, commended the group for the endorsement of Mr. President for a second term stressing that Federal Government policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have prioritized farmers across the country
He equally urged them to evaluate every polician that comes to campaign in their communities.
Governor Ododo used the forum to applaude them for believing in his administration and and that of Mr. President
He then promised to continue creating the enabling environment that would enhance the well-being of all Kogites irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation.
Ododo used the forum to charge Kogi people to beware of politicians who are only interested in their personal gains rather than the enhancement of the community.
The governor further acknowledged the need for unity and peace most especially as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.
He reassured the public that on-going programmes and policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were designed to make life better for Nigerians, hence the need for continuity so as sustain the gains.
