Cardinal Torch: How a 6-Year-Old Nigerian Agribusiness is Rewriting Africa’s Commodity Story

THISDAYLIVE | 01-09-2026 02:50am |

The article discusses Cardinal Torch Company Limited, a Nigerian agribusiness that aims to change how Nigeria handles its agricultural products. Founded in 2020, the company has achieved significant growth and is now focusing on processing raw agricultural goods instead of just exporting them. Currently, Cardinal Torch exports raw commodities like cocoa, cashews, and maize. However, they plan to build processing plants to create finished products, such as cashew nuts, soy oil, and chocolate, which can be sold for much higher prices. This shift is important because most of Nigeria’s raw cashew nuts are sent to countries like India and Vietnam for processing, meaning Nigeria misses out on the profits. To fund their expansion, Cardinal Torch raised ₦10 billion (about $13 million) and plans to list on the stock market in the future. They emphasize strong governance and sustainability in their operations, ensuring that their practices comply with regulations and support local farmers. The company also plans to launch a new brand called "Cardinal Treats," offering ready-to-eat cashew snacks in various flavors. Their goal is to create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that benefits farmers, communities, and the economy while providing high-quality products to global markets. Overall, Cardinal Torch aims to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector by moving from exporting raw materials to producing value-added goods.

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