The Kwara government, in collaboration with the Kwara State Association of Nigerians in the UK, has inaugurated an ultra-modern cassava factory in Osin-Pakate, Ilorin East LGA.

Speaking at the ceremony on Tuesday, Afees Abolore-Alabi, the commissioner for agriculture and rural development, said the cooperative-led programme aligned with the state’s agricultural development priorities.

He stated that it was a significant milestone in strengthening cassava value addition and agro-processing in the state.

Mr Abolore-Alabi noted that the project demonstrated how farmer organisations supported by the right policies and partnerships could drive sustainable agribusiness growth.

He explained that cassava value addition played a critical role in reducing post-harvest losses, improving product quality, increasing farmers’ incomes, and creating employment opportunities for youths and women.

He added that the initiative would contribute immensely to food security, supply of industrial raw materials, and rural economic development.

The commissioner acknowledged the partnership between the state and diaspora stakeholders, describing their collective investment as a strong vote of confidence in cassava production and processing opportunities within the state.

Mr Abolore-Alabi restated that cooperative organisations remained a key pillar in the government’s strategy for inclusive agricultural development.

“The role of the Kwara government is to provide an enabling environment through supportive policies, infrastructure development, capacity building, and strategic collaboration with cooperatives and the private sector.

“The progress being recorded across the cassava value chain reflects the development agenda of the government, whose administration continues to prioritise agricultural transformation through strategic partnerships and investor-friendly policies,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the factory was expected to process cassava into products such as garri (granulated flakes), high-quality cassava flour, starch, and other value-added derivatives for household and industrial use.

He noted that the initiative complemented ongoing efforts to strengthen the cassava value chain by improving access to inputs, extension services, and market linkages, thereby increasing productivity and profitability for farmers across Abia.

Mustapha Salary, the association’s chairman, commended the Kwara government for creating a supportive environment that enabled the project.

He encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly those from Kwara, to invest back home to contribute to community development, state growth, and national progress.

(NAN)