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THE ANALYSIS OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT EFFORT TOWARDS CASSAVA PRODUCTION

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1  Background to the Study 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has demonstrated a strategic commitment to enhancing cassava production as a key component of the country's agricultural and economic development. Cassava, a staple crop in Nigeria, serves as a crucial source of food, income, and industrial raw materials. The government's efforts towards cassava production encompass a range of initiatives, policies, and interventions aimed at addressing challenges in the cassava value chain, boosting productivity, and fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural sector. Afolabi(2019)

One of the central pillars of the Federal Government's approach is the National Cassava Transformation Plan (NCTP), a comprehensive roadmap that outlines specific strategies for the revitalization of the cassava value chain. Launched to transform cassava into a major foreign exchange earner and industrial raw material, the NCTP focuses on improving various facets of cassava production, including cultivation, processing, and marketing. Agboola (2019)

Research and development play a pivotal role in the government's efforts. Substantial investments have been made in collaborative research initiatives involving agricultural institutions, scientists, and farmers. The aim is to develop improved cassava varieties that exhibit resistance to pests and diseases, have higher yields, and meet the diverse needs of farmers and industries. By enhancing research in cassava breeding and agronomy, the government seeks to provide farmers with access to improved planting materials and technologies. Alabi(2018)

Capacity building and training programs have been implemented to empower cassava farmers with the knowledge and skills needed for modern farming practices. These programs cover various aspects of cassava cultivation, from sustainable farming techniques to effective pest and disease management. By equipping farmers with the tools to optimize their farming practices, the government aims to increase overall cassava productivity and improve the livelihoods of those dependent on cassava cultivation. Afolabi(2018)

In a bid to support farmers financially, the Federal Government facilitates access to agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and high-quality planting materials. Subsidies on these inputs are implemented to alleviate the financial burden on cassava farmers, encouraging the adoption of advanced farming practices that contribute to increased yield and improved crop quality.Furthermore, the government actively promotes value addition and processing within the cassava sector. Financial incentives and technical support are provided to facilitate the establishment of small and medium-scale cassava processing enterprises. This not only adds value to the crop but also contributes to job creation and the development of the agro-processing industry.Market access and linkages have been a focal point, with the government working to establish connections between cassava farmers and agribusinesses. By creating structured market environments and promoting fair pricing mechanisms, the government seeks to ensure that cassava farmers receive just compensation for their produce, stimulating sustained production and income generation.

Export promotion has also been part of the government's strategy, recognizing the potential of cassava as a valuable export commodity. Programs are in place to meet international quality standards, facilitate export logistics, and promote Nigerian cassava products in global markets. This not only contributes to foreign exchange earnings but also enhances the competitiveness of the Nigerian cassava industry on the global stage.Climate-smart agriculture practices are integrated into cassava production strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change. These practices include the promotion of water-efficient irrigation systems, conservation agriculture, and sustainable land management to enhance the resilience of cassava farming systems in the face of changing climatic conditions.In conclusion, the Federal Government's concerted efforts towards cassava production in Nigeria reflect a comprehensive and integrated approach. The combination of policy frameworks, research and development, capacity building, financial support, value addition, and market-oriented strategies underscores the commitment to transforming cassava into a more economically viable and sustainable crop. While challenges persist, the ongoing initiatives represent a significant stride towards achieving food security, poverty alleviation, and economic development through the promotion of cassava production in Nigeria. Continued collaboration between the government, farmers, research institutions, and the private sector is

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