The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) has distanced itself from the proposed Cashew Policy Validation Workshop reportedly scheduled for July 15, 2026, by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, saying it neither authorised nor endorsed the exercise. In a statement signed by its National President, Dr Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, and Executive Secretary, Unekwuojo Augustine Edime, the association said it neither participated in planning the workshop nor was represented in the process. NCAN warned that any individual or group claiming to represent the association at the workshop does so without its approval or mandate. It added that any statement, recommendation, commitment, resolution or position presented by such persons should not be regarded as the official position of the association. According to NCAN, policies affecting Nigeria’s cashew industry should be developed through broad stakeholder consultation, transparency, inclusiveness and engagement with the duly recognised leadership of relevant industry bodies. The association therefore dissociated itself from the proposed validation exercise and any decisions or outcomes that may emerge from it, maintaining that it neither participated in nor endorsed the process. Despite its position, NCAN reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and other stakeholders to advance policies that would promote the sustainable development and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s cashew industry. The association also urged government institutions, development partners, industry stakeholders and the public to verify any representation made on its behalf through its officially recognised leadership. NCAN said it remains open to genuine dialogue and collaboration to strengthen the country’s cashew sector through an inclusive and transparent policy development process.