Nigeria's Cassava Sector Seeks Government Support for Economic Transformation

The President of the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA), Pastor Segun Adewuni, has urged the government to establish a Cassava Development Commission in a bid to diversify Nigeria's economy and reduce its reliance on oil.

Speaking at the Agro-Commodity Roundtable Dialogue, Dinner, and Recognition Night organized by the Federation of Agricultural Commodity Associations of Nigeria, Adewuni stressed the need for a strong political will to accomplish this transformation.

Citing the success stories of countries like Malaysia, which turned palm produce into a major economic crop, and Ireland, which shifted from being a net importer to an exporter of dairy products, Adewuni emphasized the potential for cassava to become the backbone of Nigeria's economy. However, he noted that it would require dedication and commitment on the part of the government.

Adewuni emphasized the importance of separating the agenda for cassava for food security from that of cassava for industrial use. He highlighted the need to address the high production costs faced by smallholder farmers in Nigeria, which make Nigerian cassava the most expensive in the world.

"For example, in China, a tonne of cassava chips is sold for $200, while it costs Nigerian farmers over $400 to produce the same tonne. The crude form of agriculture practiced in Nigeria hinders cassava's penetration into the global market," Adewuni explained.

He further highlighted the lack of proper mechanization and infrastructure for agriculture in the southern states, where cassava is a main crop. Adewuni pointed out the scarcity of serviceable tractors, which severely limits farmers' productivity.

Until recent times, cassava was mainly seen as a subsistence crop for inter-cropping in Nigeria. Adewuni emphasized the need to change this perception and make cassava an attractive cash crop.

To boost youth involvement in agriculture, Adewuni stressed the significance of technology-driven farming methods and making farming an appealing career choice that allows young farmers to generate wealth based on their desires and abilities.

As part of his proposal, Adewuni suggested allocating 10 hectares of cassava farms to youth farmers in proximity to processing factories. These farmers would receive support and guidance from extension officers, who would provide the necessary inputs and services for successful cultivation.

The youth farmers will be given a monthly allowance, which will be deducted from the proceeds of their sales at harvest. Implementing this initiative would enable young farmers to gradually expand their farms, with the ultimate goal of establishing mega farms.

"The cassava cultivation project will align with the pattern of usage of cassava by the targeted processing factories. By involving the youth in such endeavors, we can set an example for the transformation of other agricultural commodities," Adewuni concluded.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-29 News

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