Cassava Farming: How to Start & Where to Buy Land

Cassava farming is one of the most lucrative agricultural ventures in Nigeria. As a staple food consumed across the country, cassava is processed into various products such as garri, fufu, flour, and industrial starch.

The increasing demand for cassava, both locally and internationally, makes it a profitable business opportunity for farmers and agripreneurs.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to enter the agricultural sector or an experienced farmer seeking to expand, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cassava farming—how to start, best practices, and where to buy land.

What is Cassava?

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a root tuber plant grown for its starchy roots, which serve as a major carbohydrate source. It is drought-resistant and can thrive in various soil conditions, making it an ideal crop for Nigerian farmers.

Common Cassava Varieties in Nigeria

1. TMS 30572 – High-yielding and disease-resistant
2. TME 419 – Short maturation period and suitable for garri production
3. TMS 98/0505 – Rich in starch, making it ideal for industrial processing
4. TMS 92/0326 – High resistance to cassava mosaic disease

Ideal Soil and Climate Conditions

• Climate: Cassava thrives in warm, tropical climates with temperatures between 25°C and 29°C.
• Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy-loam soil rich in organic matter.
• Rainfall: Annual rainfall of 1,000mm to 1,500mm is ideal.

Read This: How to Lease Farmland for Agriculture in Nigeria

Steps to Starting a Cassava Farm

a. Business Planning & Feasibility Study

Before starting a cassava farm, conduct market research to understand the demand, pricing, and profitability. Consider the costs of land, seedlings, labor, and farm equipment. A feasibility study will help you assess the best locations and expected returns on investment.

b. Land Selection & Preparation

Best Locations for Cassava Farming in Nigeria

• Ogun State
• Oyo State
• Edo State
• Delta State
• Benue State

Land Preparation Steps

1. Soil Testing: Ensure the land is fertile and well-drained.
2. Clearing & Plowing: Remove weeds, trees, and stumps.
3. Ridge Formation: Raised ridges improve soil aeration and drainage.

c. Choosing the Right Cassava Variety

Select high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties based on market demand. For example, TME 419 is best for garri production, while TMS 98/0505 is ideal for industrial starch processing.

d. Planting Process

• Best Planting Time: Early planting (March-May) aligns with the rainy season.
• Spacing: Maintain 1m x 1m spacing for proper growth.
• Planting Technique: Cut cassava stems into 20-25 cm pieces and plant at a 45° angle.
• Fertilization: Apply organic manure or NPK fertilizer for optimal growth.

e. Maintenance & Pest Control

• Weeding: Manual weeding or herbicide application every 3 months.
• Common Pests: Cassava mealybug, green mite, and grasshoppers.
• Disease Control: Use disease-resistant varieties and crop rotation.

f. Harvesting & Processing

• Harvesting Time: 9–12 months after planting.
• Signs of Maturity: Yellowing leaves and hardened roots.
• Processing Methods:
  • Garri: Peeling, fermentation, frying.
  • Flour: Drying and milling.
  • Starch: Extraction and drying.
  • Ethanol: Industrial distillation process.

Where to Buy Land for Cassava Farming in Nigeria

Best States for Cassava Farming

1. Ogun State: Fertile land with high cassava production.
2. Oyo State: Good road access and agricultural-friendly policies.
3. Benue State: Known as the ‘food basket of Nigeria.’
4. Edo State: Rich soil and government incentives for farmers.
5. Delta State: High demand for cassava products in the region.

Factors to Consider When Buying Farmland

• Soil Fertility: Conduct soil tests before purchasing land.
• Accessibility: Ensure the farm is close to roads and markets.
• Legal Documentation: Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
• Water Availability: Consider land with access to water for irrigation.

Price Range of Farmland

• Ogun State: ₦500,000 – ₦1.5 million per acre.
• Oyo State: ₦300,000 – ₦1 million per acre.
• Benue State: ₦250,000 – ₦800,000 per acre.
• Edo State: ₦400,000 – ₦1.2 million per acre.
• Delta State: ₦600,000 – ₦1.5 million per acre.

How to Legally Acquire Farmland

• Verify land ownership through local authorities.
• Ensure all documents (C of O, Deed of Assignment) are complete.
• Register the land with relevant government agencies.
• Seek legal assistance to avoid disputes.

Market & Profitability of Cassava Farming

Selling Raw vs. Processed Cassava Products

• Raw Cassava: Sold to local buyers at ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 per ton.
• Processed Products: Higher profits from garri, flour, and starch.

Potential Buyers

• Local markets
• Industrial processors (flour mills, ethanol producers)
• Export markets

Profit Margin Estimation

• Cost per acre: ₦200,000 – ₦500,000 (land, labor, seedlings, inputs).
• Revenue per acre: ₦500,000 – ₦1.2 million (based on market rates).
• Net Profit per acre: ₦300,000 – ₦700,000.

Challenges in Cassava Farming & How to Overcome Them

• Land Disputes: Obtain proper documentation.
• Pests & Diseases: Use resistant varieties and organic treatments.
• Climate Change: Adopt irrigation systems for drought periods.
• Funding: Apply for agricultural loans and government grants.

Read This: How to Get Government Grants for Farmland in Nigeria

Conclusion

Cassava farming is a profitable and scalable agribusiness in Nigeria. By selecting the right land, choosing high-yield varieties, and applying best farming practices, you can maximize yields and profits.

With increasing demand for cassava products, now is the perfect time to invest in cassava farming.

For more guidance, connect with agricultural experts, join farming cooperatives, and leverage government initiatives supporting cassava production. Start your cassava farm today and reap the benefits of this thriving industry!