Bill to Include Cassava in Wheat Flour Passes Second Reading in Senate

A proposed bill mandating the inclusion of cassava in wheat flour production has passed its second reading in the Nigerian Senate. The legislation aims to require producers and importers to incorporate 20% high-quality cassava flour into wheat flour, a move its proponents argue will boost local agriculture and reduce wheat importation costs.

Sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC, Kwara South Central), the bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture for further scrutiny and legislative processing.

While leading the debate, Senator Mustapha emphasized the economic benefits of using cassava in wheat production, citing the $3 billion annual cost of wheat imports. He noted that excessive reliance on wheat imports has adversely impacted the country, causing trade imbalances, loss of foreign exchange, and food dependency.

The senator further highlighted that implementing the cassava policy could stimulate job creation in agriculture, enhance cassava production and processing, alleviate poverty, drive economic growth, and bolster food security.

The bill received widespread support from senators during the debate. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin championed its potential to conserve foreign exchange and increase farmers’ income. He criticized Nigerian bakers for resisting cassava’s inclusion in bread production despite favorable expert studies, calling for legislation to enforce compliance.

“It is important to utilize what we produce locally,” Jibrin stated. “Cassava is grown across all states. By replacing 20% of wheat with cassava, we can cut importation costs, conserve foreign exchange, and support our farmers.”

Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan also weighed in, recalling former President Goodluck Jonathan’s efforts to promote cassava-based bread and urging the current administration to prioritize economic diversification.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio directed the Committee on Agriculture to report back within four weeks. The committee is expected to conduct a public hearing on the bill before making recommendations to the Senate, which will then decide whether to pass it into law or reject it.