By Grace Samuel
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has emphasized the potential of cassava in Nigeria’s economic development.
Nnaji highlighted the immense potential of cassava as a crop that can generate significant income and boost food security in the country.
He stated that cassava has various primary products that can be derived from the tuber, which can generate significant income for the country.
The Minister who spoke during a recent visit to the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi in Lagos, noted that Nigeria ranks as top cassava producer globally, with an annual production of about 34 million tons.
He noted that production could further increase through the introduction of better and pest-resistant varieties.
Nnaji also toured the various departments within the agency, including the cassava processing lines, a paper production unit, and a metal fabrication center equipped with a variety of lathe machines.
He added that as a strategy for commercializing Research and Development outcomes, the ministry intends to construct pilot plants for certain products in order to attract investors.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Institute, Dr. Jummai Adamu, detailed the institute’s history, programs, and projects.
The Adamu, who spoke via a visual presentation, showcased various products such as agro-sacks crafted from banana fibers and beauty products made from Neem leaves, among others.