A youth-led cassava processing initiative in Oju local government area is proving that agriculture can be both profitable and attractive to young Nigerians. The enterprise, established by a group of graduates who returned to their community, processes cassava into garri, fufu flour, and starch for both local consumption and export to neighbouring states.

The group, which started with just five members and a small manual processing unit, has grown into a cooperative of over 30 young people operating modern processing equipment. They purchase cassava directly from local farmers, providing a guaranteed market and fair prices that have encouraged more farming in the area.

The initiative has been recognised by the National Youth Service Corps as a model for youth entrepreneurship in agriculture. The state government has provided additional equipment and training support, and plans are underway to replicate the model in other communities across Benue State.