Benue's Cassava: Nigeria's New Economic Crude Oil

Prince Joshua Apeh, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Green Harvest Stuffs, announced at a Farmers Awareness and Mobilisation Programme in Otukpo, Benue State, that cassava could become Nigeria's new "crude oil." He highlighted the agricultural potential of the Benue South Senatorial District, which is known for its high cassava production. Apeh stated that substantial investment in cassava production and processing could lead to job creation and economic transformation.

He pointed out that the region's cassava resources could support large-scale industries but lamented the lack of adequate processing facilities. Apeh asserted that with proper investment, cassava could be processed into food products and industrial materials, contributing to bioethanol and biofuel production.

He mentioned that about 3,000 farmers had registered to join the newly established Green Harvest Cooperative Society, which aims to provide farmers with access to inputs, financing, and guaranteed markets.