An agricultural expert has said Benue State’s abundant cassava production could serve as an alternative to crude oil and help boost Nigeria’s economy.

Prince Joshua Apeh, Managing Director of Green Harvest Stuffs, made the claim during a farmers’ awareness programme in Otukpo, Benue South.

Apeh said the region is blessed with large volumes of cassava that could transform the fortunes of farmers and the wider economy if properly processed and marketed. He described cassava as the area’s own version of crude oil, capable of creating jobs, supporting industries and improving food security.

He noted that the lack of adequate processing facilities has stopped farmers from getting the full value of their harvests.

According to him, cassava can be turned into food products, industrial materials and even bioethanol for fuel, reducing reliance on imports.

Green Harvest has launched a cooperative to help farmers access inputs, financing, equipment and guaranteed markets for their produce. About 3,000 farmers have already registered, and members are expected to benefit from loans, improved seedlings, fertilisers and tractor services.

Apeh said the company currently produces large quantities of garri and flour monthly and plans to expand into livestock feed and a major bioethanol plant. He also spoke about efforts to improve farm security through surveillance and called on government to support similar value-chain projects across the country.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper