Agbeyewa Farms Shows Africa’s Cassava Might

Former Botswana President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, has praised Nigeria’s agricultural potential, saying Africa can meet global cassava demand with the right policies and investments. Masisi made the remark during a visit to Agbeyewa Farms in Ekiti State, where he toured large-scale cassava cultivation and processing facilities.

The visit was part of Masisi’s engagements in Nigeria, which also included a traditional ceremony in Ile-Ife where Ghana’s former President, John Dramani Mahama, was conferred with a chieftaincy title.

At Agbeyewa Farms, Masisi was received by Cavista Holdings Chairman, Niyi Olajide, and taken on a tour of the cassava plantations and processing facilities. The farm deploys modern, technology-driven farming techniques across the value chain.

Masisi expressed excitement at what he saw, saying, “I am thrilled to see such a visionary approach to agriculture here. The entire cassava value chain is being fully utilised, along with the production and extraction of essential chemicals that hold promise for export.”

He added, “Africa has the potential to meet the global demand for cassava with the right approach. Industries thrive with government backing, and fostering local production can pave a prosperous path for Africa.”

Olajide appreciated Masisi’s visit and reiterated the need for sustained government support for agribusiness, youth participation, and private-sector-led development.

“We are elated that His Excellency has witnessed our efforts firsthand and has responded positively. Our goal is to elevate agriculture to unprecedented heights while positioning ourselves as the world’s largest cassava farm,” he said.

Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, accounting for over 20% of global output. However, the country has struggled to maximise export earnings due to limited processing capacity and value addition.

The Federal Government and state governments have identified cassava as a strategic crop for food security, industrialisation, and foreign exchange earnings, aligning with efforts to reduce dependence on crude oil revenues.