By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Kwara State Government on Wednesday delivered industrial cassava flour (garri) processing machines to residents of Owode Oja in Asa Local Government Area. The machines aim to boost cassava processing, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq fulfilled the promise through his aides after visiting the community in August 2025 to inspect road projects and assess residents’ needs.
Governor Fulfils Promise to Owode Oja Residents
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq visited Owode Oja on August 5, 2025 to inspect road projects in the area. During the visit, he praised local women for their efforts in cassava processing.
He also asked community leaders about other pressing needs. As a result, the state government procured and delivered four industrial machines to support garri production.
Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye presented the machines on behalf of the governor.
“We are here to fulfil a promise of His Excellency,” Ajakaye said.
“When the governor visited last year, he asked about other needs. Today, he sent us to deliver these machines.”
Machines to Boost Cassava Processing and Jobs
The government supplied modern equipment to improve cassava processing capacity in the community.
The machines include:
- A dewatered cassava mash fryer
- A cassava mash sifter
- A cassava grater with a daily capacity of 1.5 tonnes
Officials said the machines will increase production efficiency and improve product quality.
In addition, experts will train residents on operating and maintaining the equipment.
RAAMP Road Project Improves Market Access
Ajakaye also highlighted the 23-kilometre road project under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).
According to him, the road improves transportation of farm produce to nearby markets.
“The governor is not only empowering farmers. He also built several roads,” Ajakaye said.
“The 23km RAAMP road leading to this community shows his commitment to market access.”
Residents welcomed the road project because it reduces transport challenges and speeds up agricultural trade.
Community Leaders Praise Government Initiative
Community leaders expressed gratitude to the state government for the intervention.
Baale Owode Oja, Mallam Kuranga Yakub, said the project would transform the local economy.
“Our people, especially women, travelled to Lagos for work before now,” Yakub said.
“However, with this factory, they can stay home and earn income from garri production.”
Other community representatives, including Mustapha Kadir Olaitan and Fauzat Abdulganiy, also praised the initiative.
They said the machines will support local businesses and strengthen rural development.
