The National Bambara Nut Producers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NABAPPMAN) has urged Nigerians to explore the nut’s medical and economic value in curing ailments and fostering growth.

The national president, Suleiman Isiaka, stated this during the maiden national exco meeting and the opening of the national headquarters office in Abuja on Saturday.

He said the nut’s significance to the nation’s economy cannot be overemphasised, given its numerous health benefits and diverse economic potential.

“Bambara nut is medicinal for curing cancer, diabetes, and liver diseases. It is also a commodity capable of driving economic growth and national development,” Mr Suleiman said.

He noted that the federal government had identified bambara nut as one of the commodities crucial for diversifying the economy and boosting agricultural production.

Mr Suleiman explained that the crop thrives naturally in West Africa, unlike in Europe, where the soil cannot support its cultivation, creating a unique export advantage.

He said that over 30 food products could be derived from the bambara nut, including cake, meat pie, milk, swallow, and several others.

According to him, the association’s priority is to harness the nut’s potential to drive sustainable economic growth and development across the country.

Mr Suleiman added that with the new office, the association was poised to deliver long-term value and make a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy.

He revealed that the group is targeting over ten million tons of bambara nut production within the next two years.

“We are just like a moving train. Our membership speaks volumes. We are targeting about ten million members before December,” he said.

The vice president, Anthony Nwafor, described the nut, with its high protein content, as a unique food suitable for everyone.

“We expect to boost food production by cultivating it widely. Once we produce enough, processing is no problem, and we can market and export,” he said.

Mr Nwafor called for greater funding support for farmers, particularly at the grassroots, to scale production and achieve the association’s targets.

He also urged the media to intensify public sensitisation on the importance and value of the nut.

(NAN)