By KP Reporter
The Lagos State Government has called upon local farmers to seize the abundant opportunities presented by the cassava value chain. Speaking at the fifth AgriQuest Africa Network (AQAN) Forum in Lagos, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, emphasized the need for farmers to embrace technology and innovation in cassava production.
The theme of the forum, “Scaling Roots & Tubers Value Chain & Market Systems in Nigeria, Current Approach and Trends,” underscored the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s status as the world’s largest producer of cassava. Ms Abisola Olusanya, represented by Mrs Olabisi Adebayo, stressed the economic potential of cassava, citing its myriad secondary products ranging from staples like garri and fufu to industrial uses like starch and fuel ethanol.
Furthermore, the Commissioner urged farmers to prioritize quality in cassava stem planting to ensure higher yields and increased income. She advocated for collaboration between agricultural scientists, engineers, and local fabricators to develop technologies tailored to the needs of Nigerian farmers, thus enhancing job satisfaction and income levels.
Dr Wahab Ashiru of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) echoed the sentiment, highlighting the institute’s efforts in developing appropriate technologies and business models to promote value addition and reduce wastage in cassava processing. He emphasized the need for increased research funding and effective promotion of innovative technologies to address challenges hindering value chain development.
Executive Director of AgriQuest Africa Network, Mr Abiodun Olaniyi, urged government intervention through subsidies to support local farmers and ensure an enabling environment for agricultural growth. He emphasized the importance of knowledge acquisition for farmers to scale up cassava production and ultimately reduce the price of essential food items.