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Ogun State Farmers Urge Federal Government to Invest in Cassava Processing, Highlighting Missed Industrial Gains

Stakeholders mark World Cassava Day, lamenting continued import of starches despite Nigeria’s position as world leader in cassava production

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Stakeholders mark World Cassava Day, lamenting continued import of starches despite Nigeria’s position as world leader in cassava production

Farmers and agro-industry stakeholders in Ogun State have called on the federal government to prioritise investments in cassava processing, warning that Nigeria’s status as the world’s largest cassava producer has not translated into industrial or economic benefit. The appeal came on Thursday during events marking World Cassava Day 2026 across the South-West region.

Despite Nigeria harvesting millions of tonnes of cassava annually, processors and manufacturers say the country still imports a significant amount of starches, sweeteners and industrial derivatives. Participants at the event noted that this contradiction highlights a failure to convert agricultural abundance into real industrial growth.

Industry experts pointed to Thailand as an example of how targeted investment in processing and product development can transform a commodity into valuable exports and industrial inputs. “Thailand did not simply produce more cassava; they built robust industries around it through processing and export market development,” said Samuel Oladele, a leading agro-processor based in Abeokuta. “Nigeria must learn from this if we want real value.”

For many rural communities in Ogun and other states, cassava remains a pillar for food security and livelihoods. However, farmers lamented that limited access to local processing plants means most produce is sold raw at low prices, while manufacturers rely on imported inputs. The National Cassava Growers Association called for public-private partnerships to establish modern factories across producing states.

The Ministry of Agriculture said it is reviewing policies to encourage more investment in agro-processing, promising new incentives for domestic producers by year end. However, some stakeholders argue that similar promises have been made before without significant results. “We are watching closely – what matters now is implementation,” said Oluwafemi Ajayi, a farmers’ cooperative leader from Ifo Local Government Area.

Analysts say unlocking Nigeria’s cassava potential will require coordinated action: better infrastructure, access to finance for processors, and strict enforcement of local content policies. Without an industrial leap, they warn, Nigeria risks remaining an exporter of raw commodities rather than a driver of value-added growth.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/agro-care/why-nigerias-cassava-boom-needs-industrial-leap/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Sanwo-Olu Orders Demolition of Shanties on Lagos-Badagry Expressway, Issues Eviction Deadline

Lagos State government says removal will tackle illegal structures and improve road safety; residents given ultimatum to vacate

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June 27, 2026

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Lagos State government says removal will tackle illegal structures and improve road safety; residents given ultimatum to vacate

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the immediate demolition of shanties and makeshift structures along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, issuing an ultimatum for occupants to vacate the area. The order, delivered on Saturday in Lagos, targets encroachments that officials say threaten public safety and hinder infrastructure development.

According to state authorities, the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to restore orderliness and ensure the free flow of traffic on one of Lagos’ major highways. The affected stretch covers several kilometres where informal settlements have sprung up over recent months, raising concerns over environmental sanitation and security.

The Lagos-Badagry Expressway serves as a critical link between Nigeria’s commercial capital and neighbouring West African countries. In recent years, government has embarked on phased reconstruction of the corridor but persistent illegal occupation has slowed progress and complicated maintenance efforts. Officials argue that removing the shanties is necessary to safeguard investments in road infrastructure and protect commuters.

Sanwo-Olu’s administration said the decision followed repeated warnings to illegal occupants to relocate voluntarily. “We cannot allow lawlessness or structures that put lives at risk along this vital route,” a senior official in the Ministry of Environment said while reiterating government’s commitment to urban renewal. The official warned that defaulters who fail to comply within the specified deadline would face forcible eviction.

There was no immediate response from resident groups or opposition parties as at press time. However, some affected families have expressed fears over possible loss of shelter and livelihoods. The state government maintained that it would provide support for eligible persons through existing social intervention programmes after the clearance exercise.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/891090-sanwo-olu-orders-demolition-of-shanties-along-lagos-badagry-expressway-gives-occupants-ultimatum.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

FHA Blames Developer for Port Harcourt Building Collapse After Extra Floor Added to Approved Plan

Federal Housing Authority officials say developer ignored three-floor limit as Rivers government launches investigation into collapse

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June 27, 2026

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Federal Housing Authority officials say developer ignored three-floor limit as Rivers government launches investigation into collapse

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) has attributed the recent collapse of a four-storey building under construction along Odili Road in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to the developer’s violation of the approved building plan. FHA officials visited the site on Thursday, led by Executive Director of Project Implementation, Oluremi Omowaiye, alongside the Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Edward Hart.

According to Omowaiye, the developer was initially granted approval to construct a three-storey structure but went ahead to add an extra floor without authorisation. He stated that this disregard for regulations likely contributed to the incident. A team of engineers from FHA headquarters in Abuja joined local authorities at the scene immediately after the collapse was reported to support rescue operations.

“The approval issued on February 20, 2024 was strictly for three suspended floors based on submittals by the developer,” Omowaiye said at the site inspection. “Adding another floor against what was approved is unacceptable and endangers lives.” The executive director commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for his swift intervention and support in managing the aftermath.

FHA clarified that the building approval was granted before its current management took office. The agency stressed that it would not tolerate any further contravention of building regulations and called on all developers in Nigeria to adhere strictly to approved plans to avoid disasters.

Governor Fubara has since ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the collapse and directed that the site remain sealed pending outcome of inquiries. Stakeholders have urged greater enforcement of planning laws as authorities continue search-and-rescue efforts at the location.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/rivers-building-collapse-fha-says-developer-defied-approved-plan/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Edo Government Sets Up Special Court for Cultism, Kidnapping Cases Amid Security Concerns

Move aims to speed up prosecution of suspects as state grapples with rise in cult-related violence and abductions

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June 27, 2026

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Move aims to speed up prosecution of suspects as state grapples with rise in cult-related violence and abductions

The Edo State Government has established a special court dedicated to handling cases of cultism and kidnapping, as part of renewed efforts to tackle insecurity in the state. The initiative, announced on Saturday, comes in response to growing concerns over the increasing rate of violent crimes in various communities across Edo.

The decision to set up the court was reached after a series of security meetings involving key stakeholders in Benin City. According to officials, the special court will prioritise the prosecution of suspects arrested for cult activities and kidnapping, with a view to ensuring speedy dispensation of justice and deterring further crimes.

Edo State has witnessed a surge in cult-related clashes and abductions over recent months, leading to anxiety among residents and calls for more decisive government intervention. Community leaders and civil society groups have repeatedly urged authorities to take stronger action against those responsible for these offences.

While announcing the measure, government representatives emphasised that the new court will work closely with security agencies and the state’s Ministry of Justice. “We are committed to restoring peace and order,” an official said. However, some legal practitioners have raised questions about the capacity of the existing judicial system to handle an influx of cases, stressing the need for adequate resources and fair trials.

With this development, Edo joins other states that have introduced specialised courts to address specific security challenges. The government has called on residents to support law enforcement efforts by providing credible information on criminal activities. Further details on the operational framework of the new court are expected in coming weeks.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/891089-insecurity-edo-sets-up-special-court-for-cultism-kidnapping-cases.html

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