By Abdullahi Lukman
Ondo State has commissioned two cassava processing mills aimed at promoting agriculture and stimulating the local economy.
The mills, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) under the FGN/NDDC/IFAD-supported Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises-Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) Project, are located in Mahintedo, Ilaje Local Government Area, and Igedegede, Akoko North-West Local Government Area.
The project, launched by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s representative, Dr. Olayide Adelami, seeks to support rural communities by encouraging local farmers to increase cassava production, thereby enhancing the value chain.
“This project will make a significant impact on rural livelihoods. It’s tailored to support cassava farmers and improve the entire agricultural value chain,” said Adelami during the Mahintedo commissioning.
The locally built new processing plants are designed to reduce the logistical challenges faced by farmers in transporting raw cassava to markets.
By processing cassava locally, the plants are expected to not only add value to the produce but also create jobs, particularly for youth.
“This initiative will empower our youth, giving them the opportunity to engage in agriculture, and contribute to the state’s economic growth,” Adelami noted.
Dr. Abiodun Sanni, IFAD’s National Project Coordinator, revealed that the launch of the mills was part of a larger strategy, with similar initiatives underway in 10 other local governments within Ondo State.
“We have identified several agrarian communities, like Mahintedo, where there is strong potential for agricultural development,” Sanni said, adding, “Our investment here is based on a thorough assessment and the community’s eagerness to embrace agriculture.”
Prince Olawale Ademola, State Project Coordinator for the LIFE-ND program, highlighted that the mills are only a small part of a broader agricultural initiative involving 100 communities across Ondo State.
He explained that the cassava processing mills are tailored to meet local needs and support various cassava-based products, including garri and pupuru.
The processing facilities include essential equipment such as peelers, graters, and dryers, all of which are locally fabricated to ensure easy maintenance and accessibility.
Ademola also pointed out that the community will take ownership of the project, with a dedicated operation and maintenance committee in place to ensure its long-term success.
Mrs. Folukemi Tunde-Daramola, the Permanent Secretary of Ondo State’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, emphasized the job creation potential of the mills during the commissioning at Igedegede.
She noted that the mills would reduce the need for transporting raw cassava outside the community, resulting in better quality products and more opportunities for local youth.
