Drawing from practical field experience at the Teaching and Research Farm of Obafemi Awolowo University, this paper examines how the introduction of the Ayaya cassava variety, combined with targeted value chain interventions, can improve productivity, enhance processing efficiency, and strengthen market value/participation.
Introduction
Cassava plays a central role in Nigeria’s food system, contributing significantly to food security, rural incomes, and agro-industrial development. Nigeria remains the world’s largest producer of cassava, yet the value chain continues to face structural limitations, including low productivity, inefficient processing systems, and fragmented market access (FAO, 2021; IITA, 2020). Addressing these challenges requires an integrated approach that connects production, processing, and market systems.