The Kogi Government says it is currently clearing massive hectares of land in the Osara, Adavi Local Government Area of the state for cassava cultivation and processing under its Fair Agric Project (FAP).
Mr Oyisi Okatahi, the Managing Director of Kogi Agricultural Development Project (KADP), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lokoja.
He said that the new agriculture city would be called “Cassava City: A City Built on God”, with a total land area of 12, 500 hectares.
Okatahi added that the city would involve the entire value chain of cassava, including farmers, agro chemical & equipment dealers, extension agents, processors, among others.
“We are currently clearing massive land to build a cassava city at Osara, which is the first of its kind in Kogi to be built under the Fair Agric Project (FAP).
“The land is free of charge and there is also opportunity to receive subsidy inputs like fertilizers and herbicides.
“We want to start with at least 10 hectares and if we get support we shall clear the entire place which is 12,500 hectares.
“We appreciate the good people of Osara for donating their land free of charge for this project.
“The city will be powered by off-grid Solar energy, and have various amenities like residential houses, clinics, educational institutions, and insurance firms to mitigate against risk.
“We shall ensure orderliness, security and proper organisation. All you need do is to apply online or at our head office or any zonal office, and you will be qualified.
“No need for connections, it is based on first come first serve basis,” he said.
Okatahi noted that cassava was presently at high demand and that Kogi remained the number one cassava producer in the country.
According to him, the state is already having two major processing companies – UNICANE and Crest Agro – with a combined daily capacity of 2,500 metric tonnes (MT)
He added that the 2,500 MT of two processing plants could only source about 10 per cent, saying a tonne of cassava was sold between N20, 000 to N26, 000.
“At these prices you can get 80 to 100 per cent return on your investment in other words you can double your money in 10 months.
“His Excellency, Gov. Yahaya Bello, is committed to the success of Agriculture in Kogi State. He is dedicated to creating jobs and opportunities for our youths, women and farmers in general.
“Above all, this city is a faith based city meaning it is founded on God’s word. So when people commit their plans to God they are sure to succeed,” Okatahi said.
