NCAN revenue suspension takes effect as Nigeria’s cashew body undertakes reforms and leadership changes to protect farmers and strengthen governance

The National Cashew Association of Nigeria has suspended all forms of revenue collection in its name with immediate effect, pending institutional reforms and the harmonisation of its governance structures, the association announced on Monday in Abuja.

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The decision was adopted unanimously during the NCAN Annual General Meeting and Stakeholders’ Forum, according to a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting and signed by the NCAN Secretariat, with Mr Olarotimi Ayeka listed as Secretary and Mr Ademola Bamidele Adesokan as President.

The association also condemned what it described as increasing foreign encroachment across Nigeria’s cashew value chain, warning that such practices undermine local farmers, processors, exporters and the country’s economic interests.

On policy direction, the AGM rejected calls for an outright ban on the export of Raw Cashew Nuts, noting that such a move could disrupt livelihoods.

NCAN pledged to engage government authorities to promote value addition, improve seeding, enforce respect for contract agreements by foreign buyers, and strengthen support for cashew farmers.

In a major leadership overhaul, the AGM dissolved the Ojo Ajanaku–led administration, citing loss of confidence and legitimacy.

Members present endorsed and ratified Mr Ademola Bamidele Adesokan as the new President, with a formal gazetted communiqué on the transition expected before the end of the week.

The meeting further resolved to undertake a comprehensive review and amendment of the NCAN constitution to reflect current industry realities.

Planned reforms include provisions to ensure that only bona fide cashew stakeholders can become president, prevent any president from exceeding the constitutionally defined tenure, and establish a clear, transparent and enforceable leadership succession framework.

As part of immediate directives, NCAN ordered all revenue agents and representatives nationwide to cease revenue collection activities on behalf of the association.

The communiqué warned that any individual or group defying the directive would be reported and treated as acting illegally.

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The communiqué disclosed that all state police commands have been formally notified of the resolutions through the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.