Cassava flakes, popularly known as garri, remain one of the most widely consumed staple foods in Nigeria and across West Africa. Produced from processed cassava tubers, garri is a dry, granular food with a slightly fermented taste, valued for its long shelf life, affordability, and versatility in consumption. It is consumed daily in various forms such as “eba” (a dough eaten with soup) or soaked in water as a ready-to-eat meal, making it a critical component of food security across all socio-economic classes.
Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava globally, with output exceeding 62 million metric tonnes annually, reflecting a steady increase in production over recent years. Despite this abundance, a large proportion of cassava is consumed as food rather than processed into industrial products, with over 80% of Nigerians relying on garri and similar staples for daily consumption. This strong domestic consumption pattern has made garri one of the most important food commodities in the country.
The South Eastern region of Nigeria—comprising Abia State, Anambra State, Ebonyi State, Enugu State, and Imo State—is one of the largest consumption hubs for garri in Nigeria. The region has a deep cultural attachment to cassava-based foods, and demand is consistently high due to population density, urbanization, and strong food traditions. Cities such as Onitsha, Aba, Enugu, and Owerri serve as major commercial markets where garri is traded in large volumes daily.
The demand for garri in Nigeria is substantial, with estimates indicating national consumption of over 1 million metric tonnes annually, while supply remains significantly lower, creating a persistent supply gap. This imbalance presents a strong investment opportunity, particularly in regions like the South East where consumption is high and supply chains are often fragmented. In addition to local demand, garri has increasingly gained international recognition, with growing export demand from African diaspora communities in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Garri production involves a series of processes including peeling, washing, grating, fermentation, dewatering, frying, and sieving of cassava tubers. While traditional methods dominate, there is a growing shift toward mechanized processing, which improves efficiency, hygiene, product consistency, and output volume. Modern processing technologies also reduce post-harvest losses and enhance the overall quality of the final product, making it suitable for both domestic and export markets.
The proposed project focuses on establishing a commercial-scale garri production plant in South Eastern Nigeria, strategically located close to cassava-producing communities and major consumption markets. The plant will source fresh cassava roots from local farmers, process them into high-quality garri, and distribute the finished product through wholesale and retail channels. This integration of production and market access ensures steady raw material supply and efficient product distribution.
The business is economically attractive due to the abundance of raw materials, strong and consistent demand, and relatively simple production technology. Equipment required for garri production can be locally fabricated, reducing capital costs and making the business accessible to small and medium-scale investors. In addition, garri’s long shelf life allows for flexible storage and distribution, reducing the risk of spoilage compared to other food products.
From a financial perspective, garri production offers strong profitability potential, supported by high turnover rates and stable demand across all income levels. The business also benefits from multiple product variations, including white garri and yellow garri, which cater to different consumer preferences and price points.
Beyond profitability, the project contributes significantly to rural development, employment generation, and food security. It provides a reliable market for cassava farmers, reduces post-harvest losses, and strengthens the agricultural value chain in the region.
Cassava flakes (garri) production in South Eastern Nigeria represents a highly viable and sustainable agribusiness opportunity. With abundant cassava supply, strong domestic and export demand, and opportunities for value addition through improved processing, the sector offers significant potential for investment, income generation, and economic growth.
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
