Nigeria’s Ambitious Plan to Boost Cassava Production and Drive Economic Growth

To stimulate economic prosperity and reduce reliance on imports, the Nigerian government has announced plans to increase its annual cassava production from 64 million metric tons to a staggering 120 million metric tons.

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, recently visited the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) and the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) in Lagos to discuss the initiative.

During his visit, the Minister toured FIIRO’s facilities, including the Engineering building, Pulp and Paper division, Cassava processing pilot plant, Exhibition dome, and Training pavilion.

He expressed concern over the under-utilization of food processing equipment and emphasized the need to increase food production and create employment opportunities.

“Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava in the world, with 64 million metric tons per annum,” said Chief Uche Nnaji.

“With the strength we have now, we can multiply that to 120 million per annual.”

He added that the Ministry will support FIIRO in leveraging technology to revive the country’s export of plantain flour and emphasized the importance of producing its food items.

The Minister highlighted the critical role of research institutes in driving economic growth and fostering innovation.

He called for increased revenue allocation for institutes like FIIRO to ensure that research efforts translate into tangible results.

The move to increase cassava production is expected to significantly reduce the high cost of importation, boost revenue generation, create employment opportunities, and elevate the standard of living for Nigerians.

By focusing on export and self-sufficiency, the Nigerian government aims to position the country as a leader in the global food market and drive economic growth.