The Nigerian Senate has taken a bold step to mandate the inclusion of 20% high-quality cassava flour in all wheat flour products produced or imported into the country.
This development comes as the Cassava Flour (Mandatory Inclusion in Flour Production) Bill, 2023 (SB 254) passed its second reading.
The move, according to lawmakers, aims to cut Nigeria’s $3 billion annual wheat import bill and promote local cassava farming.
Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central, is the bill’s sponsor.
He described the legislation as a “game-changer” for Nigeria’s agricultural sector and economy.
“Nigeria Must Lead in Cassava Utilization”
Presenting the bill, Senator Mustapha said Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, with an annual output of over 63 million metric tonnes.
“Cassava is in high demand for both domestic and industrial uses, and it holds immense potential to boost our economy,” he stated.
The senator emphasized that past governments have attempted similar policies but failed to achieve lasting success.
He blamed reliance on wheat imports for trade imbalances, foreign exchange losses, and food dependency.
“The Russia-Ukraine war has worsened the global wheat crisis,” he added. “It is imperative to seek alternatives to reduce costs, especially for bread, a staple food in Nigeria.”
Economic and Social Benefits
Senator Mustapha outlined the bill’s benefits, highlighting its potential to stimulate job creation in agriculture and manufacturing.
“The cassava industry can become a significant source of foreign exchange earnings,” he said.
The bill aims to mandate the 20% cassava flour inclusion, publish guidelines for implementation, and provide incentives for flour producers who comply.
Proposed incentives include tax breaks for wheat importers who blend cassava into their products.
“This initiative will also boost rural development, create jobs for women and youth, and foster technological innovation in cassava processing,” Mustapha noted.
Cassava’s Role in Food Security
The bill aligns with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security’s 2021 policy on cassava flour inclusion.
“Cassava can drive rural development, poverty alleviation, and economic growth,” the senator said. “It is a vital crop for ensuring food security.”
He added that the legislation will reduce the food import bill and strengthen local production capacity.
Calls for National Support
Lawmakers expressed optimism that the bill, when passed, will transform Nigeria’s agro-economy.
They called for collaboration between government agencies and private stakeholders to make cassava flour inclusion a reality.
The Senate also urged Nigerians to embrace cassava-based products to support the initiative.
Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders
While the bill has received praise for its potential to reduce wheat imports, concerns remain about implementation.
Critics argue that cassava farmers and processors may face challenges meeting the expected demand.
Others fear that inadequate infrastructure could hinder cassava’s mass production and distribution.
The Senate, however, promised to address these concerns through clear regulations and incentives.
A Bold Step Forward
If passed, the bill will solidify cassava’s role in Nigeria’s economy and position the country as a leader in cassava utilization.
“Nigeria cannot afford to waste its cassava potential,” Senator Mustapha said.
“This bill is a step towards self-reliance and economic diversification,” he concluded.
