Agbeyewa Farms, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, has emerged as a shining example of private sector-led agricultural transformation in Nigeria, garnering significant praise and support from the Federal Government. The company’s extensive cassava production and processing operations, located in Ekiti State, align perfectly with the nation’s food security agenda and broader economic diversification goals. During a recent visit to the farm, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, lauded Agbeyewa’s rapid expansion and its commitment to leveraging agriculture as a driver of economic empowerment. He emphasized the importance of private-sector partnerships in strengthening the cassava value chain and pledged the government’s support to further enhance the company’s productivity. This collaboration between the public and private sectors signifies a shared vision of harnessing agriculture to achieve sustainable economic growth and ensure food security for the nation.
Agbeyewa Farms’ remarkable growth trajectory is evident in the substantial increase in its cultivated land. In just two years, the company has expanded its cassava cultivation from a modest 102 hectares to over 1,500 hectares across four different locations within Ekiti State. This expansion is a testament to the company’s ambitious vision and its dedication to large-scale agricultural investment. Furthermore, Agbeyewa has entered into a significant memorandum of understanding with the Ekiti State Government to cultivate a staggering 100,000 hectares of cassava. This landmark agreement not only underscores the company’s commitment to agricultural development within the state but also highlights its potential to significantly impact local economies and create numerous job opportunities.
The company’s impact extends beyond mere cultivation, as Agbeyewa is also investing heavily in agro-processing. A planned 26-hectare processing plant is poised to commence operations soon, focusing on the production of high-quality cassava derivatives. These products, ranging from flour and starch to sorghum, sugar, and ethanol, will further diversify the company’s portfolio and solidify its contribution to the entire cassava value chain. This vertical integration, from cultivation to processing, not only maximizes value creation but also ensures quality control throughout the production process. By focusing on value-added products, Agbeyewa Farms is strategically positioning itself to meet the growing demand for cassava-based products both domestically and potentially in international markets.
Agbeyewa Farms’ success is underpinned by a strategic blend of innovation, partnerships, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. The company collaborates closely with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to optimize its cassava cultivation. This partnership ensures the use of the best-suited cassava varieties for the region and has resulted in significantly higher yields. While the average cassava yield per hectare is typically around six tonnes, Agbeyewa Farms has achieved yields of up to 30 tonnes per hectare, showcasing the positive impact of embracing research and best practices. This dedication to continuous improvement not only maximizes productivity but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the agricultural sector.
The company’s commitment to rural development is also noteworthy. By engaging with local farmers through outgrower schemes, Agbeyewa provides access to essential resources like machinery, inputs, and guaranteed off-take agreements. This inclusive approach ensures that local communities directly benefit from the company’s growth and fosters shared prosperity within the agricultural sector. By empowering local farmers and integrating them into the value chain, Agbeyewa Farms is creating a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both the company and the surrounding communities. This model of shared growth is essential for long-term agricultural development and for ensuring that the benefits of agricultural expansion are distributed equitably.
In essence, Agbeyewa Farms stands as a compelling model for agricultural transformation in Nigeria. The company’s large-scale investment, focus on value addition through processing, commitment to sustainable practices, and engagement with local communities exemplify how private sector initiatives can drive both economic growth and food security. With the continued support of the Federal Government and its strategic partnerships, Agbeyewa Farms is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in revolutionizing the agricultural landscape in Nigeria and beyond. The company’s success story not only highlights the potential of the agricultural sector but also underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving sustainable development goals.
