The Kogi State Government has designated 1,200 hectares of land for immediate intervention in cassava production, as announced by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Timothy Ojoma, during the inauguration of the State Executive Council of the Cassava Cottage Processing Marketing Association (CACOPMAN) in Lokoja.
Mr. Ojoma highlighted that the state government would contribute 80% of the effort by providing essential resources such as tractors, improved stems, fertilizers, chemicals, and land clearing. Over 48 areas across the state’s three senatorial districts have been identified for this purpose.
In addition to the allocation of land and provision of resources, the government is also enhancing extension services by deploying over 1,000 extension workers. These workers will ensure that farmers receive updated information on cassava cultivation techniques and practices. Information will be translated into the three main languages of the state to facilitate better understanding and implementation.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to food production and security, Mr. Ojoma noted that Governor Usman Ododo’s primary focus has been on agriculture since assuming office.
Furthermore, the state government has completed the training of enumerators for a forthcoming biometric capturing of all farmers across the state to gather useful data.
The newly appointed leadership of CACOPMAN was urged to mobilize members to actively participate in government food production programs to enhance food security in the state.
In his remarks, the National President of CACOPMAN, Mr. Segun Ilori, urged the new executive council to strive towards increasing cassava production in the state, noting the availability of incentives from both government and non-governmental organizations.
Alhaji Salihu Adobauji, the State President of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), encouraged cassava farmers to persevere through economic hardships and prioritize food production during the farming season.
In his acceptance speech, the new state CACOPMAN chairman, Ufana Hussein, underscored the industrial potential of cassava, citing various products such as starch, cooking gas, organic fertilizer, and animal feeds derived from cassava processing.
This initiative highlights the Kogi State Government’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and fostering economic growth through cassava cultivation and processing.
NAN
