Nigeria Must Transform Cassava into Industrial Powerhouse— Dr. Bello

News in Brief:

—Nigeria’s cassava advantage must move beyond production towards processing, industrialisation and value creation.

—Experts say improved technology, research and stronger value chains are essential to unlock cassava’s economic potential.

Nigeria must prioritise cassava as a strategic crop capable of driving food security, industrial growth and economic transformation, according to Dr Tony Bello, Chief Innovation and Commercialisation Officer at Matna Foods Limited.

Bello said Nigeria’s position as the world’s largest cassava producer presents a major opportunity to move beyond agricultural production and build a stronger value-added industry around the crop.

Agriculture Seen as Driver of Economic Transformation

Bello explained that recent global disruptions, including supply chain challenges and rising food costs, have changed how nations view agriculture.

He noted that food security is no longer only a social concern but also an economic and national security issue.

According to him, countries are increasingly recognising the importance of building strong domestic food systems and reducing dependence on unstable global supply chains.

He added that Nigeria’s agricultural focus must extend beyond farming to include processing, manufacturing, logistics, exports and industrial development.

Cassava Can Become Nigeria’s Strategic Industrial Crop

Bello described cassava as Nigeria’s equivalent of major strategic crops that have supported industrial growth in other regions.

He said countries have historically transformed staple crops into platforms for food production, manufacturing, employment creation and export development.

Nigeria, he argued, has the opportunity to do the same with cassava by developing industries around food products, starches, animal feed, sweeteners and other derivatives.

He noted that cassava already supports millions of Nigerians through products such as garri, fufu, flour, tapioca and other traditional foods.

Production Success Must Lead to Value Creation

The agribusiness expert said Nigeria has already achieved significant success in cassava production, producing more than 60 million metric tonnes annually.

However, he stressed that the major challenge is not production but industrialisation.

According to him, economic value comes when agricultural output is connected to efficient processing, strong markets and sustainable demand.

He explained that many investments in cassava have focused on production and primary processing, while less attention has been given to innovation, commercialisation and downstream products.

Processing Capacity Remains a Major Challenge

Bello identified low capacity utilisation among cassava processors as a key issue affecting the sector. He revealed that many processing facilities operate below their potential due to challenges such as consistent raw material supply, market access, and value-chain coordination.

He noted that underutilised factories increase production costs, reduce competitiveness and limit the sector’s ability to create wealth.

Technology and Research Needed for Growth

The expert said technology, mechanisation and research are essential for building a competitive cassava industry.

He highlighted the importance of improved varieties, quality planting materials, disease resistance and higher yields to strengthen productivity.

According to him, large-scale agricultural investments and partnerships with research institutions are helping improve cassava cultivation practices and commercial production.

He emphasised that the goal should not only be producing more cassava but higher-quality cassava suitable for industrial use.

Bello stated that Nigeria must change its approach by viewing agriculture as a business and industrial growth opportunity rather than only a food production activity.

He explained that transforming cassava into a driver of prosperity requires investment, innovation, market development and stronger links between farmers, processors and industries.

He added that the future of Nigeria’s cassava sector depends on creating more value from the crop rather than simply increasing production volumes.