The collaboration arrangement was revealed by the Research Manager (Humanities Cluster), Centre for Research Development and In-House Training, University of Ilorin, Prof. Yahya Imam, in Ilorin.
Imam, noted that the partnership is a channel for CRIN staff members to gain knowledge at the University of Ilorin at Master and Doctoral levels.
He further stated that: “It will also afford undergraduates and staff of the university the opportunity to benefit from the experience of CRIN experts.”
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The research manager noted that the goal of the concerted effort is to create viable and sustainable cultivation of cashew through massive production – which will further add to its value chain.
The cashew project is one of the CRIN’s research development goals, from which a variety of cashew called, Brazilian Jumbo was created.
The Brazilian Jumbo is a breed whose nuts develop in a year, in variance to the local variety which matures after 5 years.
According to Imam, cashew nut shell contains inedible Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL), which consists of 15 per cent of the gross weight, while the nut contains Cashew Nut Kernel Oil (CNKO), which is sweet edible oil.
He also explained that the CNSL contains high proportion of phenolic compounds, used in the production of water proofing agents, preservatives for the production of paints and plastics, as well as substances for making brake lining compounds.
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