During the 2024 Odu'a International Trade Fair at the Oyo State Trade Fair Complex EXPOYO, Mr Oskar Ayeleso, the Managing Director/Executive Director of Agbeyewa Farms Limited, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings Limited, highlighted the potential of cassava in enhancing Nigeria's gross domestic product. Despite its profitability, cassava has not been recognized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for international promotion alongside other major cash crops. Ayeleso expressed astonishment at this oversight, emphasizing the role of agriculture in addressing hunger and unemployment in Nigeria. He reiterated Agbeyewa Farms' commitment to contributing to a food-secure economy in alignment with President Bola Tinubu's mission for economic rejuvenation and job creation.
Ayeleso disclosed plans for cultivating 10,000 hectares of cassava in every local government of Ekiti State and expressed the firm's readiness to partner with entities committed to boosting food security. The inclusion of cassava in USAID's list is anticipated, following discussions that highlighted its significance. Agbeyewa Farms employs modern agricultural machinery and engages in community empowerment through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Ayeleso stressed the importance of local and state GDP growth as foundational to national economic sustainability.
The General Manager of Agbeyewa Farms, Mr Babatunde Akinsinde, spoke on leveraging agronomic practices for profitable cassava production and supporting youth in agriculture with resources such as free land and stems for planting. The event saw participation from farmers, stakeholders, and students from the South West states and Oyo State, underlining a collective effort towards agricultural development.
Source: PUNCH