Cassava processors in Niger State have been urged to diversify their production to include cassava chips for export, following reports of high global demand, particularly in European markets.
The call was made by cassava chips expert Jamu Salka during a specialized training session organized by the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in collaboration with Qu-VIRO Nig. Ltd.
According to Salka, the global market for cassava chips is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for gluten-free and vegan snacks, health-conscious consumer preferences, and diverse industrial applications.
"There is a significant opportunity for growth and innovation in the cassava chip market, particularly in regions like Africa and Asia," Salka emphasized during the training.
The expert highlighted the versatility of cassava chips, noting they can be utilized as snacks, animal feed, in paper and textile manufacturing, and as biofuel, making them a highly sought-after commodity in international markets.
Niger State Coordinator of VCDP, Hajiya Hadizat Isah, explained that the training was designed to build capacity among beneficiaries to produce high-quality cassava chips that meet international standards.
Isah revealed that an off-taker had approached the agency with a request for 300,000 tonnes of cassava chips, prompting the need for local processors to diversify from traditional products like garri and cassava flour.
"As of now, we are unable to meet the request and we believe that, by diversifying to cassava chips for export, processors can tap into the global market by capitalising on the growing demand for the product. The initiative has the potential to boost the economy of Niger State and improve the livelihoods of cassava processors," she stated.
During the training, participants received comprehensive instruction on the step-by-step production process of cassava chips, including cleaning, peeling, chipping, drying, packaging, and storage techniques to ensure export-quality products.
The beneficiaries, drawn from various participating local governments and primarily consisting of garri and cassava flour processors, expressed gratitude for the knowledge gained and committed to implementing these new techniques in their businesses.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to diversify Nigeria's export base and create additional revenue streams for agricultural producers across the country.
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