The Nigerian government has announced the release of 10 billion Naira (US$61 million) to enhance Cassava bread production, according to the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi  Adeshina.

 

 

The private Guardian newspaper Friday quoted the Minister to have said that all equipment and cassava machinery for the production of the commodity would attract a zero duty.

 

“We have the support of Mr. President to turn around the cassava machinery sector. He has graciously agreed to consider our initial request of close to N10 billion cassava fund to further explore the potentials of the Cassava industry,” said the minister, who was represented  by his Special Adviser on Cassava Volume Chain, Dr. Martin Fregene, at the Cassava roll-out and commencement of business in staple crop processing at Agbadu in North Central Kogi State.

 

“All equipment and machinery for production of Cassava bread would attract a zero duty. Furthermore, the Cassava bread development fund will be used to support research and development efforts on Cassava bread training of master bakers,” he added.

 

The announcement of the fund is seen by stakeholders as a demonstration of the government's willingness to actualise its Cassava machinery policy, which was first initiated under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

 

Nigeria is the largest producer of Cassava worldwide, but it has yet to maximise the full potential of the crop's by-products.