Nigeria is the largest producer and consumer of cassava in West Africa. The country also has the ability to expand production, enabling it to become a net exporter of this crop. To get started with your own cassava business, you need to understand the profitability and feasibility of growing this crop in your area. You should also research what types of cultivars are best for your region and soil type.

Since there are different types of businesses, we have split this article into three sections: If you are considering starting a side business, an independent venture, or something more substantial.

The side business section will help you if you want to start a small venture on the side of another job or unincorporated non-profit organization. We have included information about each section below so that you can determine which one is right for you.

There are various businesses you can start in Nigeria today, and among them is the cassava business. It is a profitable business venture that gives you the opportunity to earn a decent income. Cassava or yuca as it’s also known in some regions is one of the most popular root crops in Africa and Asia.

In Nigeria, for example, cassava is grown widely as a source of food and income. It is also the third-largest source of carbohydrate after banana and plantain. Considering its profitability, numerous people have started their own cassava business to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. If you are wondering how to start a cassava business in Nigeria, read on…

What is Cassava?

Cassava is a tropical plant that is a staple food for many people in Africa, Asia, and South America. Its root is starchy and is a good source of energy when eaten. Cassava is also used to make flour that can be used to make other foods, such as bread.

The leaves of the plant can be eaten as a vegetable. A cassava plant can grow in many kinds of soil, including poor soils with low levels of nutrients. It is easy to grow and is one of the most drought-resistant crops in the world. Cassava grows best in places where the average daily temperature is between.

Why start a Cassava business in Nigeria?

Cassava is a highly profitable crop with low start-up costs and minimal management. It is also suitable for cultivation in most tropical regions and can be grown by small-scale farmers. In addition to this, cassava is safe to eat, has a long shelf life, and has several uses.

When processed properly, cassava can be used to make other food products, such as flour, granules, and starch. To produce cassava products, you will need the right equipment like a cassava grinder or cassava shredder.

With the right level of investment and proper knowledge, setting up a cassava business can be highly rewarding. In fact, a study shows that if you invest N50,000 in cassava production, you can make about N100,000 in profit.

How to start a cassava business in Nigeria

There are several ways you can go about starting a cassava business in Nigeria. Here are the steps you can follow to succeed. First, decide on the type of cassava business you want to start. You can grow cassava in many ways and you can sell the raw root or dried cassava, cassava flour, and cassava starch. The next step is to decide on the best location to grow or harvest your cassava.

You can grow cassava in many places in Nigeria, but you will get the highest profit if you grow it in southern Nigeria. Alternatively, northern Nigeria has a large demand for this crop, so you can cultivate it in this region.

Depending on the cassava variety you choose to cultivate, you can grow it in your backyard or farm. You can also choose to partner with a farmer and buy cassava from him when it has been harvested.

Key Factors to consider before starting a cassava business

Before you go ahead and start your cassava business, there are several factors you must consider. They include:

The cost of starting a cassava business

While there is no specific cost for starting a cassava business, you can make an estimate based on the type of business you decide to start. Here are some cost estimates for starting a cassava business:

Growing cassava on a small scale can cost you around N20,000 to N50,000.
Growing cassava on a large scale (with a farm area of about 4 hectares) can cost you about N350,000.
Harvesting cassava grown on a small scale can cost you about N10,000.
Harvesting cassava grown on a large scale can cost you around N20,000.

Advantages of running a cassava business in Nigeria

You can make good money from cassava – Once you have harvested your cassava, you can sell it as a root or dried cassava or process it into flour and starch.
Cassava is easy to grow – You don’t need a lot of money to start this business. You can even start growing this crop in your backyard.
It is an easy crop to sell – There are many buyers for cassava in Nigeria.
It has diverse uses – You can consume it as a root or turn it into flour and starch.
You will be feeding people – What’s more, you will also be creating employment opportunities.

Things To Consider Before Starting A Cassava Business

Here are some things to consider before you start a cassava business.

Location – Since cassava is a tropical crop, you must grow it in a warm environment. You can also use this crop to make flour, so you must be near towns and cities where people live.
The cassava variety you choose – There are several varieties of cassava, and each has its own characteristics. You must decide which variety is best for your area.
Growing your cassava – You must decide whether you want to grow your cassava on a small or large scale.
Harvesting your cassava – You must decide on the best time to harvest your cassava.
Processing your cassava – You must decide how you will process your cassava.
Marketing your product – You must decide how you will market your cassava.

Conclusion

Cassava is a yummy root that is delicious when eaten with coconut or eaten as chips. Although it is a common food in most parts of the world, few people know that you can make money from the crop by selling the roots or by turning them into flour and then into many different food products.

If you are interested in starting a cassava business in Nigeria, then you should know that it is simple and profitable. You just have to make sure you know what you’re doing, and you’ll be fine.