The Federal Government says it seeks to save about ₦3 trillion in foreign exchange through expansion of the cassava value chain. It says about 1.4 million farmers are now participating in the programme that aims to increase production, processing and export of cassava products.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said the cassava value chain initiative is part of efforts to diversify the economy, boost local production and reduce import dependency. He spoke at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
Kyari said Nigeria is positioning cassava to meet both domestic needs and international demand for products such as garri, starch, flour and ethanol. He said increased processing in Nigeria will reduce spending on imported goods that could be produced locally.
Mr Kyari said records show that 1,400,000 farmers across the country have been engaged in cassava production through government support programmes.
These include supply of seedlings, training and access to processing facilities. Some participants have also received improved implements to increase yield and quality.
The initiative encourages farmers to move beyond subsistence farming to integrated production that links farmers with processors and exporters for higher earnings.
Kyari said reducing dependence on imported food and industrial raw materials will help cut foreign exchange outflows. He noted that the government expects savings to reach around ₦3 trillion if local processing increases significantly and export markets expand.
He said the cassava value chain can generate substantial earnings from starch, high-quality flour, sweeteners and ethanol exports if production and processing capacities are strengthened.
The minister said the government is working with development partners, private sector firms and research institutions to improve cassava yields, processing technology and market access.
He said investment in storage, transport and quality control will help farmers enter formal markets and meet export standards.
Government will continue implementing the cassava value chain programme and monitor production, processing and export performance. Officials say ongoing support will include training, access to finance and partnerships to expand markets at home and abroad.
