Prospects and Challenges of Cashew Production in Igala Land, Kogi State Nigeria

The study has examined the prospects and challenges of cashew production in Igala land of Kogi state, north central Nigeria. The study used multistage sampling technique with a sample size of 300 respondents. Data were collected through the application of personal interviews, questionnaire and the trans –sect –walk observation. The study revealed that the study area is densely populated. Nevertheless, the area has prospects for the production of cashew. For instance, the study revealed that the area has rich soil with a favourable climatic condition. There is also a ready market for the cashew nuts. Conversely, the study has shown that cashew production in the area is facing some challenges such as fragmented land holdings, lack of extension services, and imposition of multiple taxes, inadequate government support and poor road network. The paper has thus recommended that practical steps should be taken to address the problem of land fragmentation. Productivity enhancing support services such as fertilizers, herbicides and chemicals should also be readily available and at affordable prices to farmers. An effective and efficient agricultural extension service scheme should be put in place to avail farmers with the opportunity of managing their small farms more effectively for optimal productivity. The study has also recommended that there should be a reduction in the number if taxes cashew farms face and that all tiers of government should make the construction and rehabilitation of rural roads a priority in their developmental agenda