Newsworth | January 2026
Hon. Ayuba Edino, prominent cashew merchant and owner of ZAYYRAB COMPANY, has issued a comprehensive advisory to farmers, buyers, and security operatives across Kogi State following the commencement of another phase of the cashew production and marketing season.
In a statement released on the sidelines of ongoing cashew activities in the state, Hon. Ayuba Edino described the current season as a critical economic window for Kogi State, particularly for communities in Igala land, where cashew farming remains a major source of livelihood.
Advice to Farmers
Hon. Ayuba called on cashew farmers across Kogi State to approach this season with discipline, patience, and strategic thinking, noting that the success of the cashew market depends largely on farmers’ conduct. He advised farmers to harvest only mature cashew nuts and avoid sharp practices that reduce quality. He urged them to engage only with recognised buyers and Licensed Buying Agents (LBAs), avoid panic-selling and price undercutting, which weakens farmers’ collective bargaining power, and protect their produce from theft and roadside exploitation.
According to him, farmers in Igala land must see this season not just as a period of sales but as an opportunity to secure long-term economic stability for their families and communities.
Message to Buyers and Off-takers
Hon. Ayuba Edino urged all licensed buyers, exporters, and major off-takers to promptly release funds to LBAs and sub-buyers operating in rural communities. He stressed that inadequate funding at the grassroots level often leads to market distortions, farmer dissatisfaction, and the rise of illegal buying networks. He warned that buyers who fail to provide timely liquidity risk disrupting the entire cashew value chain and undermining trust within farming communities.
Strong Warning to Escorts and Road Operators
In a firm caution, Hon. Ayuba Edino warned all security escorts and unauthorised persons to stay away from the buying and selling of cashew nuts on highways and rural roads. He stated clearly that roadside cashew trading is illegal and harmful to the integrity of the cashew market. Any escort or individual caught engaging in such activities will be reported to the relevant authorities, and offenders will be made to face the full consequences of the law, without exception.
Conclusion
Hon. Ayuba Edino concluded by calling on all stakeholders, farmers, buyers, community leaders, and security agencies to work together to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and profitable cashew season in Kogi State. He reaffirmed that ZAYYRAB COMPANY remains committed to ethical trade practices, fair pricing, and full compliance with government policies, adding that only collective responsibility will guarantee sustainable growth of the cashew industry in Kogi State.
“This cashew season must be guided by order, fairness, and respect for the law. Anything short of that will not be acceptable,” he stated.
By Hon. Ayuba Edino, CEO, ZAYYRAB COMPANY
