Cassava is the most widely cultivated root crop in Nigeria and remains a cornerstone of food security, rural livelihoods, and agro-industrial development. The country is currently the largest producer of cassava in the world, with annual output exceeding 62 million metric tons in recent years, accounting for a significant share of global production . Despite this impressive production base, a large proportion of cassava is still consumed in traditional food forms such as garri and fufu, with less than 5% directed toward industrial processing, highlighting a major opportunity for value addition .

In South Eastern Nigeria, cassava production is widespread and deeply embedded in the agricultural system. States such as Anambra State, Imo State, Abia State, Enugu State, and Ebonyi State are key producers, with cassava cultivated year-round due to favorable climatic conditions and its adaptability to different soil types. For instance, Anambra is recognized as one of the leading cassava-producing states in the South East, supporting thousands of farmers and processors . This abundance of raw material makes the region highly suitable for cassava-based agro-processing ventures such as cassava chips production.

Cassava chips are dried slices of cassava roots, typically cut into small pieces and dried to reduce moisture content. This transformation is crucial because fresh cassava roots contain about 55% water and deteriorate rapidly after harvest, often within 48–72 hours. Converting cassava into chips significantly extends shelf life, reduces post-harvest losses, and facilitates storage, transportation, and industrial use .

The production of cassava chips has gained increasing attention as a key driver of cassava industrialization in Nigeria. By removing moisture, cassava chips stabilize the raw material and make it suitable for various industrial applications. These include use in animal feed production, ethanol manufacturing, starch processing, pharmaceuticals, and food processing industries, all of which rely on consistent and storable raw materials . This wide range of applications ensures a strong and diversified market for cassava chips, both domestically and regionally.

In South Eastern Nigeria, the demand for cassava chips is further supported by the growing livestock and agro-processing sectors. Poultry farms, feed mills, and small-scale manufacturers require cost-effective carbohydrate sources, and cassava chips provide an affordable alternative to maize and other feed ingredients. In addition, the proximity of the South East to major commercial hubs and export corridors enhances market accessibility and distribution efficiency.

The proposed cassava chips production business is designed to operate at a moderate industrial scale, with a production capacity of 10 tonnes of cassava chips per day, operating for 300 working days annually. Based on an average input-output ratio of 1:0.45, approximately 10 tons of fresh cassava roots would yield about 4.5 tons of dried cassava chips. The finished product would be packaged in 50 kg polypropylene bags with inner linings to preserve quality and prevent moisture absorption.

The production process involves sorting, peeling, washing, slicing, drying, and packaging. The technology required is relatively simple, and most of the equipment can be locally fabricated, making the business accessible to small and medium-scale investors. Furthermore, labor requirements are moderate, providing opportunities for employment generation within rural and peri-urban communities.

From an economic perspective, cassava chips production presents a highly viable investment opportunity. The business benefits from abundant raw materials, growing industrial demand, low production technology barriers, and multiple market outlets. Additionally, it contributes to reducing post-harvest losses, increasing farmer income, and strengthening the cassava value chain.

However, success in this venture depends on efficient raw material sourcing, proper drying techniques to ensure consistent quality, and effective market linkages with industrial buyers. Seasonal price fluctuations and competition with food uses of cassava must also be carefully managed through strategic sourcing and storage.

In conclusion, cassava chips production in South Eastern Nigeria is a profitable, scalable, and strategic agribusiness venture. With the region’s strong production base, increasing industrial demand, and Nigeria’s overall push toward agricultural industrialization, the business offers significant potential for sustainable returns while contributing to food security, rural development, and economic diversification.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.0 Business Overview

1.1 Description of the Business

1.2 Vision and Mission Statement

1.3 Business Objective

1.4 Value Proposition

1.5 Critical Success Factor of the Business

1.6 Current Status of Business

1.7 Description of the Business Industry

1.8 Contribution to Local and National Economy

2. Marketing Plan

2.1 Description of the Products

2.2 Product Packaging and Delivery

2.3 The Opportunity

2.4 Pricing Strategy

2.5 Target Market

2.6 Distribution and Delivery Strategy

2.7 Promotional Strategy

2.8 Competition

3. Production Plan

3.1 Description of the Location

3.2 Raw Materials

3.3 Production Facilities and Equipment

3.4 Production Process

3.5 Production Cost

3.6 Stock Control Process

3.7 Pre-Operating Activities and Expenses

3.7.1 Operating Activities and Expenses

3.8 Project Implementation Schedule

4.0 Organizational and Management Plan

4.1 Ownership of the Business

4.2 Profile of the Promoters

4.3 Key Management Staff

4.3.2 Management Support Units

4.4 Details of Salary Schedule

5. Financial Plan

5.1 Financial Assumption

5.2 Start-Up Capital Estimation

5.3 Source of Capital

5.4 Security of Loan

5.5 Loan Repayment Plan

5.6 Profit and Loss Statement

5.7 Cash flow Statement

5.8 Viability Analysis

6.0 Business Risks, Mitigation Strategies and SWOT Analysis

6.1 Business Risks and Mitigation Strategies

6.2 SWOT Analysis