In a pioneering move set to redefine Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, a new initiative is transforming small-scale cassava farming in Osun State into a profitable, thriving enterprise.
The Micro Cassava Enterprise Support Programme, a landmark collaboration between CATO Foods & Agroallied Global Concepts and the British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF), is empowering 100 smallholder farmers by providing them with a comprehensive suite of resources, training, and, most critically, guaranteed market access.
Launched in Ayedire Local Government Area, the programme’s core mission is to shift the mindset of farmers from being mere producers to becoming dynamic agribusiness entrepreneurs.
Pelumi Aribisala, managing partner and co-founder of CATO Foods & Agroallied Global Concepts, said the initiative was meticulously designed to meet the burgeoning industrial demand for cassava while simultaneously strengthening Nigeria’s food system.
“A key component of the programme is the provision of improved, high-yield cassava stems. The varieties distributed to benefiting farmers are capable of producing a staggering 45 to 50 tonnes per hectare, a significant leap from traditional yields. This ensures that farmers can achieve a bountiful harvest from their one-acre plots, “Aribisala explained.
According to him, the program’s structure is built on a foundation of comprehensive, end-to-end support.
“In CATO Foods, we leverage our in-house extension unit and business support services to train farmers on good agricultural practices, with regular farm monitoring. The support covers everything from land preparation to marketing, guaranteeing that farmers have the necessary tools and knowledge for success,” he noted.
Aribisala revealed, that the pilot initiative, which targets 100 farmers, has ambitious plans for expansion. “We plan to empower an additional 500 farmers next year,” demonstrating a clear commitment to scaling the initiative and creating a wider impact.
Adetola Oniyelu, BATNF’s project manager, emphasised that the partnership with CATO Foods is pivotal because it guarantees a ready market for the farmers’ produce.
“CATO Foods, with its steady demand for cassava for factory operations, will serve as a reliable off-taker for the farmers’ harvest. This collaboration directly addresses one of the biggest challenges for smallholder farmers by ensuring they can sell their produce at a fair price. What is the point of supporting farmers with inputs if they cannot sell their produce?” Oniyelu asked.
“This programme guarantees that farmers’ hard work translates into tangible income,” he added.
He noted that the Osun initiative is part of a broader BATNF strategy to empower smallholder farmers across Nigeria, with similar projects already established in Oyo, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Ekiti States.
The programme has garnered strong local support, with the Olupo of Oluponna, Oba Abdul Rafiu Oyekanmi Mosobalaje Bamigboye II, pledging his full backing.
He stated, “I am ready to provide all the necessary support to encourage farmers to do more. More food will come from here to contribute to our local economy and to Nigeria in general.” The monarch praised the initiative for helping the needy, expressing confidence it would encourage more communities to participate.
In her keynote address, Atinuke Lebile, CATO Foods co-founder, stressed that the programme places a special emphasis on empowering women and youth. She highlighted that the partnership with BATNF is vital in addressing key farmer challenges, including limited access to quality inputs and market uncertainties.
“The programme will provide participating farmers with essential tools for success, including improved inputs, extension services, capacity building, and reliable markets,” Lebile said. She also noted that each farmer will receive an input distribution card to ensure transparency and monitor the impact of every intervention.
Lebile described the initiative as a powerful testament to what is possible when the private sector, development partners, and farming communities unite with a shared vision. Expressing gratitude to BATNF for its commitment, she praised the resilience of the farmers, stating,
“You are the heartbeat of this initiative, and your resilience is the foundation on which we are building.” She urged farmers to view the programme not as an end, but as a beginning.
“This is a step toward a future where Nigerian farmers are empowered, our food systems are more resilient, and our communities are stronger,” said.
