As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Nigeria’s foremost brewing company, has donated a 2-ton-per-day cassava processing facility to the Awo-Omamma community inOwerri, Imo State.
Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Thibaut Boidin, described the project as yet another milestone in the company’s journey toward sustainable development and economic empowerment.
Boidin disclosed that the cassava processing plant will create multiple direct and indirect employment opportunities for local youth and residents, generate an estimated N500 million in annual revenue and ultimately position Awo-Omamma as a hub for cassava processing.
He emphasized that the company’s mission extends beyond brewing beverages, and is equally committed to brewing prosperity, hope, and empowerment for the people and the communities it serves.
“Over the years, through our various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives, we have consistently made significant and lasting impacts in critical areas such as education, healthcare, access to clean water, security and economic empowerment. Today’s event further demonstrates our unwavering dedication to spreading joy and enabling progress in our host communities”, Boidin added.
He explained that the facility was developed following a comprehensive needs assessment conducted by the company in collaboration with community stakeholders.
Boidin added that the 2-ton/day cassava processing facility is designed as a sustainable, revenue-generating project aimed at mitigating the socio-economic challenges and preservinglivelihoods previously supported by its mothballed Awo-Omamma brewery.
In his remarks during the commissioning, His Royal Majesty -Eze Dr Val Amanfo, Eze Amanfo VI, Eze V, the traditional ruler of Awo-Omamma Community, expressed gratitude to Nigerian Breweries Plc for its thoughtful contribution to the community.
“This donation will go a long way to supporting food production, thereby providing jobs for our women and youths as well as encouraging local farmers, etc. It will bring hope to many families and strengthen the bond of friendship between our people and your organisation. As the traditional ruler of this land, I want to assure you that the people of Awo-Omamma Community deeply appreciate this gesture. We recognise your effort, your respect for our community, and your commitment to shared progress. We will continue to support your operations, and together, we shall sustain a peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship”, he said.
Also speaking during the commissioning ceremony was the Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Imo State, Chief Bar. Rex C Anunobi, who lauded Nigerian Breweries’ long-standing presence in the state and its positive contributions to economic growth, amidst operational challenges.
Anunobi noted that the establishment of the cassavaprocessing facility reflects the company’s sensitivity to the needs of its host communities and aligns with Imo state government’s economic development agenda.
“The commissioning of this cassava processing plant willundoubtedly uplift economic income and provide employmentfor the people of Awo-Omamma. The Imo State Governmentdeeply appreciates Nigerian Breweries Plc for this kindgesture, which stands as a shining example for other corporateorganisations to emulate. We assure you of our continuedpartnership and support to ensure this facility operatesoptimally and contributes meaningfully to the prosperity of our people,” he said.
Agbeyewa Farms, a leading agribusiness and subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, yesterday hosted renowned Brazilian cassava experts Mr. Pascoal D’Andrea Filho and Mr. Liviston Teles Sena on a technical visit to its large-scale cassava estates across Ipao, Gede, and Iyemero communities in Ekiti State.
The high-level visit comes shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil, where both countries deepened bilateral cooperation in agriculture, energy, and technology transfer.
The engagement reflects the growing importance of public–private collaboration in building sustainable food systems and advancing agricultural industrialization.
Cassava is a versatile, gluten-free staple crop feeding hundreds of millions in Africa, Asia, and South America, while its starch and flour derivatives are used in food and industrial products across the world.
As demand rises globally, Nigeria (already the world’s largest producer) holds enormous potential to transform cassava into a driver of food security, job creation, and export diversification.
In just two years, Agbeyewa Farms has cultivated over 5,000 hectares of cassava, integrating mechanized farming technology with grassroot community participation.
This initiative is bolstering Nigeria’s food systems, creating jobs, empowering rural communities, and fueling agro-industrialization.
During their tour, the Brazilian delegation, both veterans in large-scale cassava farming, processing, and mechanization, commended Agbeyewa’s vision and scale.
“This is impressive. We came to Nigeria to meet Agbeyewa Farms, and it’s an incredible project. We have never seen so many cassavas planted in one extension area as we saw today – fields upon fields of cassava. It’s fantastic, and we must thank John for the vision and the courage to do something of this magnitude,” said Mr. Pascoal, commending Agbeyewa’s Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide.
“The future of cassava in Nigeria lies in replicating the revolution Agbeyewa is pioneering,” he added, urging increased support through partnerships, financing, and policy backing.
On the visit, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, Chairman of Agbeyewa Farms and Cavista Holdings said: “Nigeria can be a global leader in cassava production and processing. Partnerships like this accelerate our ability to bring in world-class expertise, technology, and practices that empower our farmers, strengthen our communities, and contribute to economic growth. This is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.”
Agbeyewa’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, described the visit as a vital platform for knowledge exchange:
“It is my pleasure to host our friends from Brazil, who are global leaders in cassava farming. We have much to learn from their experience, and this engagement strengthens our vision to scale cassava production and deliver transformative impact across the value chain.”
Mr. Aiyeleso also revealed that Agbeyewa’s leadership will soon undertake a reciprocal visit to Brazil to strengthen networks and draw lessons from the country’s thriving cassava industry.
He said the collaboration directly aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to expand global agricultural partnerships and signals a bold new chapter in private-sector-led transformation of food and economic systems.
In a significant boost to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, a new initiative is transforming small-scale cassava farming into a profitable enterprise in Osun State. The Micro Cassava Enterprise Support Programme, a collaborative effort between CATO Foods & Agroallied Global Concepts and the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), is empowering 100 smallholder farmers by providing them with resources, training, and market access.
Speaking during the programme’s launch in Ayedire Local Government Area, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of CATO Foods & Agroallied Global Concepts, Pelumi Aribisala, said the main goal is to shift farmers from being mere producers to becoming agribusiness entrepreneurs.
He explained that the initiative was designed to meet the rising industrial demand for cassava while also strengthening Nigeria’s food system.
“A key component of the programme is the provision of improved, high-yield cassava stems.These varieties can produce up to 45 to 50 tonnes per hectare, a significant increase from traditional yields, ensuring that farmers can achieve a bountiful harvest from their one-acre plots. The programme’s structure is designed to provide comprehensive, end-to-end support,” Aribisala said.
He noted that CATO Foods will utilise its in-house extension unit and business support services to train farmers on good agricultural practices while monitoring their farms regularly. “This support covers everything from land preparation to marketing, guaranteeing that farmers have the necessary tools and knowledge for success,” he added.
According to him, the project is currently a pilot initiative targeting 100 farmers, with a plan to expand next year. “We plan to empower an additional 500 farmers, demonstrating a clear commitment to scaling the initiative and impacting more lives,” he said.
BATNF Project Manager, Adetola Oniyelu, emphasised that the partnership with CATO Foods is pivotal because it guarantees a ready market for farmers’ produce. “CATO Foods, which requires a steady supply of cassava for its factory operations, will serve as a reliable off-taker for the farmers’ harvest. This collaboration addresses one of the biggest challenges for smallholder farmers by ensuring they can sell their produce at a fair price,” he explained.
“What is the point of supporting farmers with inputs if they cannot sell their produce?” Oniyelu asked. “This programme guarantees that farmers’ hard work translates into tangible income.”
He added that the Osun initiative is part of a broader BATNF strategy to empower smallholder farmers across Nigeria. Similar projects, he said, have already been implemented in Oyo, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Ekiti States, each supporting at least 100 farmers in crops such as cassava, rice, and maize.
The programme has also won strong local support. The Olupo of Oluponna, Oba Abdul Rafiu Oyekanmi Mosobalaje Bamigboye II, pledged his full backing for the initiative, saying it would groom a new generation of agribusiness entrepreneurs in the community. “I am ready to provide all the necessary support to encourage farmers to do more,” he said. “More food will come from here to contribute to our local economy and to Nigeria in general. This programme helps the needy, and I appreciate BATNF for the support given to farmers. I believe it will encourage many more communities to join in.”
In her keynote address, Co-Founder ,CATO Foods, Atinuke Lebile, stressed that the programme places special emphasis on empowering women and youth. She said the partnership with BATNF is vital in addressing farmers’ key challenges, including limited access to quality inputs and market uncertainties.
“The programme will provide participating farmers with essential tools for success, including improved inputs, extension services, capacity building, and reliable markets,” Lebile said. To ensure transparency and accountability, she explained, each farmer will receive an input distribution card to monitor the impact of every intervention.
She described the initiative as a testament to what is possible when the private sector, development partners, and farming communities unite with a shared vision. Expressing gratitude to BATNF for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development, she praised the resilience of farmers. “You are the heartbeat of this initiative, and your resilience is the foundation on which we are building,” she stated.
Lebile urged farmers to see the programme not as an end, but as a beginning. “This is a step toward a future where Nigerian farmers are empowered, our food systems are more resilient, and our communities are stronger,” she said.
By Abdullahi Hussaini Liman and Research Team, Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria, New Mexico State University, USA
In a significant development for food security, researchers have identified improved cassava varieties that show strong resistance to destructive viral disease threatening cassava farms. The study, recently conducted at the Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria, offers fresh hope to farmers who rely heavily on cassava as a staple food and source of income.
Cassava, a vital crop grown by millions of smallholder farmers, faces major production challenges from viral diseases such as Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), and Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD). These diseases can wipe out an entire field, causing total crop failure and deepening food insecurity among vulnerable populations.
To address this issue, our research team evaluated five improved cassava genotypes (PRO Vitamin A (PRVA), TME 419, TMS 98/0505, TMS 98/0581, and TMS 30572), all gotten from International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) under natural field conditions in Minna, Nigeria. Using a field trial method, we carefully monitored the plants over an entire growing season to detect signs of viral infection.
The results were encouraging. All five cassava varieties showed no symptoms of virus infection during the entire planting season. Their leaves remained green and healthy, and no mosaic or brown streak symptoms of CMD and CBSD were observed. These findings suggest that these improved varieties possess strong natural resistance to local virus strains.
Among the tested varieties, TME 419 stood out, not only for its disease resistance but also for its superior growth performance and yield. This variety produced taller plants, more leaves, and heavier roots compared to others, making it particularly suitable for farmers aiming for both disease protection and high productivity.
“This discovery offers farmers an opportunity to adopt disease resistant cassava varieties without the need for expensive chemicals or labor-intensive control measure,” said the research team leader, Abdullahi Hussaini Liman. “Using these varieties can reduce crop losses, boost food production, and improve household income in rural communities.”
The study highlights the importance of ongoing breeding programs that focus on developing and promoting virus resistance cassava varieties. Such efforts are crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural and food security, where cassava plays a critical role in feeding the population.
The research team recommends that farmers, agricultural extension officers, and policy makers encourage the widespread adoption of these improved cassava genotypes. However, further research is still needed to assess how these varieties performs under different environmental conditions and against other diseases that affect cassava.
This study was carried out in collaboration with experts from the Federal University of Technology Minna, New Mexico State University USA, and The University of Georgia, USA.
Original Study Reference:
Liman, A. H., Salaudeen, M. T., Adeleke, I. A., Fajoye, A. M., & Arije, D. (2025). Incidence of Natural Virus Infection on Selected Improved Genetic Varieties of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in Minna, Northern Nigeria. Journal of Scientific Research and Reports, 31(1), 420–426. https://doi.org/10.9734/jsrr/2025/v31i12784
Cassava is Nigeria’s second most important staple crop, involving over 300,000 stakeholders, primarily smallholder farmers. Despite its vast commercial potential, the market remains underdeveloped and fragmented, hindering food security and income growth. This report highlights ongoing efforts to reposition the industry through collaboration between government and businesses. DANIEL ESSIET reports
The global cassava industry has experienced significant growth, driven by sustained demand from both domestic industrial consumers—particularly in the food processing and ethanol sectors—and international buyers, as reported by the consulting firm IMARC Group. The firm estimates that the global cassava processing market reached 319.9 million tonnes in the previous year. Looking ahead, IMARC Group projects the market will expand to 369.7 million tonnes by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.4% from 2024 to 2032. This growth is attributed to several factors, including shifting consumer dietary preferences, the expanding range of industrial applications, supportive government initiatives, population growth, increased demand for gluten-free products, and innovations in cassava-based offerings, such as improved shelf life and more sustainable food supply chains.
IMARC Group projects that the global cassava processing market will reach 369.7 million tonnes by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.4% from 2024 to 2032. This growth is attributed to evolving consumer dietary preferences, expanding industrial applications, supportive government policies, population growth, increased demand for gluten-free products, and innovations in cassava-based products, such as improved shelf life and more sustainable food supply chains.
The report highlights that the key drivers of growth in the global cassava processing market are the rising population and shifting dietary habits in emerging markets. As demand grows for affordable and versatile carbohydrate sources, cassava-based products are increasingly sought after. Additionally, the expanding use of cassava across various industries—such as biofuels, biodegradable plastics, and animal feed—is fostering a favourable environment for market growth. The growing recognition of cassava’s nutritional benefits, alongside advancements in processing technologies, is enhancing consumer acceptance and further fuelling the market’s expansion.
Supportive government policies and investments in the development of the cassava value chain, particularly in Africa and Asia, are playing a significant role in the sector’s growth. These initiatives are promoting sustainable agricultural practices while enhancing the infrastructure needed for processing and distribution. Cassava is vital to the gross domestic product (GDP) of many African nations, and its cultivation provides critical support for the livelihoods of millions, especially rural women and youth in the West and Central African (WCA) region.
According to Statista, Nigeria produced nearly 63 million metric tons of cassava in 2021. The Nigerian government recognises the crop’s potential to strengthen rural economies and enhance food security. To this end, the government is encouraging the use of modern processing technologies, upgrading infrastructure for cassava transportation, and providing financial support to farmers. These efforts aim to improve both the quality and quantity of cassava production, while also facilitating the establishment of processing facilities to support sector development.
Recently, the Nigerian Senate held a second reading of a bill proposing the mandatory inclusion of 20% high-quality cassava flour in the wheat used for flour production, whether produced domestically or imported. The Cassava Flour (Mandatory Inclusion in Flour Production) Bill, 2023, seeks to highlight the economic advantages of incorporating cassava into wheat flour, particularly in light of Nigeria’s current annual wheat import costs, which exceed $3 billion. Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central), who sponsored the bill, emphasized the potential benefits of the initiative, noting that Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, with an annual production exceeding 63 million metric tons as of 2021. He argued that this policy would not only create a legal framework for the inclusion of cassava in wheat flour but also contribute to cost savings and provide significant economic benefits. Additionally, he pointed out that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has driven up global wheat prices, making the search for cost-effective alternatives even more urgent.
The private sector has embraced cassava as a key driver of rural industrial development, aiming to enhance the incomes of producers, processors, and traders. This vision is supported by innovative research focused on improving disease resistance, promoting extensive propagation, and advancing phenotyping and molecular diagnostics. As cassava starch slurry gains traction among food and beverage processors, paper manufacturers, and ethanol distillers, demand for cassava in both domestic and international markets is expected to rise, boosting incomes. Additionally, the growing demand for modified starch in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, paper, sweeteners, and chemicals further fuels this positive outlook.
Agbeyewa Farms, a privately owned agribusiness enterprise valued in the billions of naira and covering approximately 5,000 hectares in Ekiti State, exemplifies the sector’s growth. The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has played a crucial role in facilitating the establishment of this initiative and has repeatedly expressed his commitment to ensuring food security within the state. Recently, he set a 2025 target for a significant increase in food production to meet the needs of Ekiti residents, with the broader goal of transforming the state into the nation’s food basket.
In pursuit of this vision, Governor Oyebanji’s administration has committed to fostering agricultural growth by collaborating with agribusiness investors like Agbeyewa Farms and supporting young agricultural entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the 2025 state budget will prioritize agriculture and food security, focusing on welfare and infrastructure development, including road rehabilitation for farm access and the provision of electricity to support agricultural activities. He highlighted several ongoing initiatives, including the “Bring Youth Back into Agriculture” project, aimed at inspiring young people to pursue careers in farming. In addition, the government has partnered with a private sector company to provide digital tractor services to farmers, further modernizing agricultural practices and enhancing productivity.
Aligned with the ambitious vision of BAO (Bring Agriculture Online), the proprietor of Agbeyewa Farms—a division of Cavista Holding—has made substantial investments in cassava cultivation in Ekiti. This investment is driven by the potential for various valuable derivatives derived from cassava processing. Currently, Agbeyewa Farms is harvesting approximately 380 hectares of cassava, which will be distributed across the South West region and other parts of Nigeria. A board member of Agbeyewa Farms and traditional ruler, Oba Dr. Sunday Aniyi of Erimope Ekiti, shared the vision that led to the establishment of the Agbeyewa Agric Revolution. He explained that the idea for Agbeyewa Farms emerged in 2021, shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of a broader effort to revitalise agriculture and enhance food security in the region.
He stated, “The chairman of Agbeyewa Farms, John Olajide, hails from my community, and we had been in discussions regarding his business ventures in Nigeria. Both his father and I were quite insistent that any investments made in Nigeria should be directed towards Ekiti, specifically Ado-Ekiti. On August 6, 2021, we convened a community meeting in my kingdom to explore the possibility of acquiring land. At that time, our goal was to secure approximately 5,000 hectares, although our kingdom was not particularly endowed with extensive land resources.
“There was also a meeting with the state government under Dr. Kayode Fayemi. So, it was like an investment meeting. Olabode Adetoyi was the commissioner of Agriculture. So, we all toured Ekiti, went to Emure, Ise and everywhere where land could be available. So, we came around this place, too. And finally, the government advised that they have agric processing zone around this corridor and that their intention is that big agricultural industries should concentrate around here, so that it is easy for infrastructure development and deployment, especially around the power corridor.
“We have engaged some technical partners who accompanied John during the investment initiative from the United States. They are seeking a processing capacity of 120 metric tonnes, which will allow us to convert cassava into various by-products. It was recommended that a minimum of 5,000 hectares of land would be necessary for this endeavour. Consequently, the governor suggested that sufficient land is available in this region. Initially, they were allocated 3,000 hectares, which was later increased to 5,000 hectares,” Oba Aniyi further stated.
The esteemed monarch also urged Ekiti indigenes living abroad to take inspiration from Olajide and return to invest in the state to alleviate hunger. “Indeed, there are numerous challenges that persist, but the primary deficiency in Ekiti is the lack of private sector investment, which is the main contributor to poverty in the region. There is nothing else. We have several universities and polytechnics in the area. If it is skilled labour you require, we possess it. Furthermore, the environment is conducive for work. Despite concerns regarding the security situation in Nigeria, I can confidently assert that Ekiti remains one of the most peaceful and secure states. No community in the world can guarantee complete security; there will always be some disturbances due to the presence of ill-intentioned individuals.”
In discussing the progress made thus far and the future aspirations of an agricultural initiative that has been operational for approximately three years, the Executive Director of Agbeyewa Farms Limited, Mr. Oscar Seyi Ayeleso, articulated the vision of establishing the premier agro-allied cassava processing facility in Africa. He stated, “The area you see today will soon transform into a cassava farming estate. We are cultivating 10,000 hectares and have our agro-allied company in place. Our processing will encompass a wide range of products. We aim to create a farming estate unparalleled in Africa, comparable to Omnicane in Mauritius. Agbeyewa is not just an ordinary farm; it represents a revolution.”
Mr. Ayeleso emphasised the significant investments Agbeyewa Farms has made in cassava cultivation, with approximately 380 hectares currently being harvested. He highlighted the importance of this harvest, noting that the introduction of these hectares into the market in the South-west region and across Nigeria will have substantial implications due to the diverse range of cassava by-products such as garri, fufu, starch, and flour. Ayeleso further discussed the farm’s contribution to employment and the local economy, stating that over 500 individuals are currently working at Agbeyewa Farm. The direct workforce exceeds 200 employees, a notable increase from the initial five. Additionally, about 400 indirect workers are involved in various tasks, such as cutting stems, harvesting roots, planting, and preparing ridges. These employment opportunities have significantly improved the financial well-being of many families and fostered the establishment of local businesses, including food vendors and other trades.
With over 1,000 hectares cultivated this season, Agbeyewa Farms is poised to become the largest cassava plantation in Ekiti State and the broader western region. The farm aims to expand to 3,000 hectares soon, with plans to reach 5,000 hectares by next season and an ambitious target of 20,000 hectares by 2026.
The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill aimed at promoting the inclusion of cassava in flour and its derivatives, particularly bread.
Titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Inclusion of Cassava in Flour and its Derivatives and for Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2023,” the legislation was sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC – Kwara Central).
Leading the debate, Senator Mustapha highlighted the impact of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war on the cost of wheat, a key ingredient in bread production.
He emphasised that the measure would help reduce bread prices, a staple food for many Nigerians, by leveraging locally produced cassava as an alternative.
According to him, the continued importation of wheat has nagative impacts on the Nigerian economy causing trade imbalance, loss of foreign exchange and fueling food dependency.
He stated that the bill when passed into law, will stimulate job creation in the agriculture sector and increase Nigeria’s market share of cassava earnings in foreign exchange.
According to him, the objectives of the bill include: “Mandatory inclusion of 20% high-quality cassava flour in Nigeria or imported into the country.
“Encourage cassava farming and create a sustainable market for cassava flour.
“Mandates the publication of regulations for the proportion of cassava flours in relation to wheat to be applied in the process of making edible flour.
“Provide a tax regime and incentives for producers of mixed wheat and cassava flours and wheat importers who include cassava flour in imported wheat.”
He said that the passage of the bill would enhance the efficiency of cassava production and processing operations as “cassava is a choice crop for rural development, poverty alleviation, economic growth and ultimately food security.”
Many of the Senators who contributed to debate on the bill, supported it.
The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, in his contribution said: “This bill is all about our national interest. It is important to utilise what we produce everywhere in this country. In the north, in the south and everywhere. Every state produces cassava. It is one of the crops that you can find everywhere.
“Experts have concluded that using a certain amount of cassava added to wheat is good for us in bread baking.
Yes, we need legislation because this thing has been said over and over again.
“However, the bakers have refused to go in line with the study that experts have made about the bread we need to produce in this country. Now, legislation should be enacted to enforce them to use this formula.”
The Senate accordingly after the debate, passed the bill for second reading and mandated its committee on Agriculture to conduct public hearing on it and report back in four weeks.
A firm, AgriDrive Nigeria Ltd, has said it has collaborated with Oyo State Government to cultivate 15,000 hectares of cassava to enhance food security in the country.
Speaking with reporters, the Managing Director, Dr. Daniel Willy, who is also the senior manager, Policy Agribusiness and Commercialisation, at African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), said the firm was making efforts to increase the number of hectares cultivated by farmers and its clients.
He said: “In the next one year, we intend to grow in terms of the hectares we cultivate for the farmers and our clients. We have a very ambitious target next year to reach about 15,000 hectares of mechanised operations, mainly within Oyo State. We are doing this, of course, in collaboration with the government.’’
Country Manager of Agridrive Nigeria Ltd, Dr. Olaitan Alloh, said the firm, a social enterprise established by AATF and based in Kenya, was focused on all crops, but started with cassava, considering its value and position to agriculture and farmers.
He said: ‘’We also consider Agridrive as a not-for-profit organisation. Our focus is to harness mechanisation and agribusiness opportunities to support AATF’s vision of raising prosperous farmers and ensuring food security in Sub-Saharan Africa through enhancement of agricultural value chain.’’
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has said a proposed cassava-based ethanol plant will be a game changer that will catalyse growth in many sectors of the economy. He spoke at the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO), an agency of the ministry, and Montserrado Investments Ltd. It was ahead of the establishment of a cassava-based ethanol plant in Ekiti State. Nnaji said the initiative underscores the ministry’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s bio-energy value chain and promoting sustainable development. “This agreement is a testament to our collective efforts to support the Nigerian government’s commitment to transitioning to clean cooking fuel. “By facilitating the production and use of ethanol derived from cassava, we are taking a vital step toward reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy sources,” the minister said. According to him, the project aims to harness the economic potential of the cassava-to-ethanol industry, providing significant benefits. These, the minister said, include support to local farmers through enhancement of the profitability of the cassava value chain, thereby stimulating employment across the sector. Another benefit is the reduction of the use of kerosene and wood as cooking fuels. This, he noted, will protect citizens from carbon dioxide emissions, thereby preserving forests and improving the country’s carbon footprint. Nnaji said: “The collaborative effort between the Ministry, Montserrado Investments, and FIIRO will include designing, building, and operating the ethanol processing plant in line with international best practices for environmental sustainability and efficiency. “The project will also focus on establishing a reliable supply chain for cassava, ensuring fair trade practices and economic benefits to local communities. “In addition to economic and environmental benefits, the initiative aims to promote public awareness about the advantages of using ethanol as a clean cook fuel, supporting its adoption among Nigerian households. “Though the pilot project will be located in Ekiti State, the project will be replicated across the six geo-political zones. “ Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Digital Economy, Seun Fakuade, highlighted the project’s potential impact on Ekiti State and beyond. Director General of FIIRO, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, said the organisation is versed in bioethanol production from cassava.
“FIIRO’s work in this domain exemplifies the institute’s capability to align traditional agricultural practices with modern industrial applications. “Bioethanol production from cassava serves as a quintessential example of how science can contribute to sustainable development. “FIIRO’s innovative processes have demonstrated how cassava can be efficiently converted into bioethanol, unveiling a new horizon for the energy and agricultural sectors and also the production of other items from cassava including bread, fufu, cassava flour, cassava chips, etc,” he said. A representative of Montserrado Investments said the company focuses on energy infrastructure in emerging markets and is currently developing a 50,000-litre-per-day ethanol distillery in Ekiti.
African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and partners are set to inaugurate a cutting-edge cassava processing plant in Oyo State to transform cassava production and processing in Southwest, thereby enhancing livelihoods and opportunities for communities.
The project will be implemented in Oyo and Ogun States by AATF, Agridrive Nigeria and Clayuca Corporation on behalf of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, through Fund for Promotion of Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag), funded and commissioned by German Federal Ministry or Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
The project builds on success of Cassava Mechanisation and Agro-processing Project (CAMAP) that raised cassava yield from seven to 30 tons per hectare in Southwest.
AATF, in a statement, noted the facility can improve access to information, knowledge, and skills on modern technologies for cassava production, processing, and utilisation to enhance productivity, food and nutrition security, by reducing post-harvest losses.
It noted the innovations seek to improve cassava cultivation by introducing new technology to process cassava tubers and enabling markets for cassava-based animal feed.
The statement said the innovations involve mechanised cassava production and processing, farmer aggregation, and digital tools to demonstrate provision of mechanised field services and improved processing technologies to smallholder cassava farmers.
By establishing the plant, AATF noted it aims to capitalise on the region’s agricultural potential while creating employment and stimulating rural development.
One of the key features, it said, is its focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Through adoption of eco-friendly practices and energy-efficient technologies, the plant sets a benchmark for responsible industrial development in the agricultural sector.
One person has reportedly died in Temidire Atoyebi area along Ajaawa in Ogbomosho after a family of six allegedly ate poisoned cassava flour used to prepare Amala on Wednesday.
The family was said to have consisted of a grandmother identified as Mrs. Victoria Adewole, her four children and a granddaughter.
The Nation gathered that the family became uncomfortable few hours after eating the food.
It was learnt that the family managed to extract the cassava flour from cassava peels that they grinded which they prepared as a meal, since they could not afford to buy yam or cassava flour.
Sources who pleaded anonymity said distress call from the affected family aroused attention of neighbours who rushed in and took them to a private hospital at Ogbomoso Baptist High School area where the granddaughter reportedly died.
The Nation learnt that medical personnel are battling to save yhe remaining family members.
A source said: “One of the children managed to disclose that it was cassava peels that they grinded and made into flour, which they prepared as amala, since they could not afford to buy yam or cassava flour.
“The complication from the peels, which could have been poisoned or contaminated, resulted in the death of the youngest granddaughter, whose immune system might be very low.
“The mother and her other four children are still battling with life in the hospital. We plead with kind-hearted people to please assist the family in whatever way they can so that fatality is no longer recorded among them.”
The Chief Medical Director of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Prof. Olawale Olakulehin, confirmed the incident, saying four out of the five remaining family members are responding to treatment in the hospital.
He stated that one of the victims is in critical condition but the one died before getting to LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
