Cassava farming is one of the most profitable agricultural businesses in Nigeria today. With the growing demand for garri, fufu, starch, and industrial cassava products, many young farmers are now investing in cassava cultivation. But before you start, it’s important to understand the cost and profit estimate involved in cassava farming in Nigeria.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the startup cost, expected yield, profit analysis, and key success tips to help you start cassava farming and make money from it.
1. Why Cassava Farming Is Profitable in Nigeria
Cassava is a major food crop in Nigeria, and over 90% of Nigerian households consume cassava daily in one form or another. The crop is also used by industries to produce:
- Garri
- Fufu
- Cassava flour
- Animal feed
- Ethanol and starch
Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava in the world, making it a profitable agribusiness for young farmers.
2. Cost Breakdown for Cassava Farming (Per Hectare)
Below is an estimated cost of starting a 1-hectare cassava farm in Nigeria in 2025:
| Item | Estimated Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Land clearing and preparation | ₦50,000 – ₦80,000 |
| Cassava stem cuttings (improved variety) | ₦30,000 – ₦40,000 |
| Planting labor | ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 |
| Weeding (twice per season) | ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Fertilizer and herbicides | ₦40,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Transportation and logistics | ₦20,000 – ₦30,000 |
| Miscellaneous (tools, supervision, etc.) | ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 |
Total Estimated Cost: ₦220,000 – ₦330,000 per hectare
3. Expected Yield and Income from Cassava Farming
With good management and improved cassava varieties like TMS 419, TME 419, or NR 8082, you can harvest between 20–30 tonnes per hectare.
If the market price of cassava roots is ₦45,000 per tonne:
Total Revenue = 25 tonnes × ₦45,000 = ₦1,125,000
4. Profit Estimate from Cassava Farming
Let’s calculate the profit margin:
- Total Revenue: ₦1,125,000
- Total Cost: ₦300,000 (average)
Net Profit: ₦825,000 per hectare
That’s almost three times your investment in less than 12 months!
5. Tips to Maximize Cassava Farming Profit in Nigeria
To succeed as a young cassava farmer, follow these proven tips:
- Choose improved cassava varieties – Go for high-yield, pest-resistant varieties such as TME 419 or TMS 98/0505.
- Apply organic and inorganic fertilizers – Cassava needs nutrients to grow well. Add NPK 15-15-15 and potassium to boost root development.
- Weed regularly – Weed at least twice before canopy closure to avoid yield loss.
- Harvest at the right time – Harvest between 10 to 12 months after planting for mature tubers.
- Add value – Process cassava into garri, starch, or fufu to earn more profit.
6. Challenges of Cassava Farming
While profitable, cassava farming comes with some challenges:
- High cost of labor and transportation
- Pest and disease attack (cassava mosaic, mealybugs)
- Post-harvest losses if not processed early
However, with proper planning and training, these challenges can be managed effectively.
7. Conclusion
Cassava farming is one of the easiest and most rewarding agribusinesses for young farmers in Nigeria. With a startup capital of ₦300,000 per hectare, you can make up to ₦800,000 profit in a single season.
If you invest in improved varieties, good soil management, and early weeding, cassava farming can change your financial story.
