In pursuit of President Bola Tinubu’s vision for improved food security and economic prosperity, the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), inaugurated a state-of-the-art integrated cassava processing plant in Igbara-Oke, Ondo State.
Dr. Jumai Adamu-Tutuwa, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of FIIRO, highlighted that the project, utilizing locally sourced raw materials, is poised to create 1,000 jobs through the cassava value chain.
Adamu-Tutuwa emphasized the plant’s potential to enhance productivity, job creation, and wealth generation in the state, requiring nearly 10 tons of cassava roots daily, sourced from over 20 local farmers.
The plant’s capacity extends to promoting rural socio-economic development throughout the cassava value chain, involving processors, marketers, farmers, and transporters.
The Director-General asserted that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the nation’s economy through innovative research and technology-driven solutions.
She urged the community of Igbara-Oke to utilize the plant judiciously for the overall development and betterment of the region.
The Traditional Ruler of Igbara-Oke Kingdom, Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for selecting Igbara-Oke as the location for this impactful project.
He highlighted the positive impact on unemployed youth and assured that the community would maximize the benefits of the cassava processing plant.
The collaboration between FIIRO and the Igbara-Oke Development Association, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signifies a strategic partnership aimed at supporting rural development and fostering economic growth in the region.
Mr Abiodun Ogunshaki, the Vice President of the community, emphasized the anticipated economic prosperity that the project would bring to Igbara-Oke and its residents.