Research Article // Water–energy–food nexus perspectives on small-scale cassava processing: A case study of a processors’ association in Egbeda LGA, Oyo State, Nigeria
By Bamigboye et al. This study examines the operational practices, constraints, and opportunities within a cassava processing association in Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria, through lens of Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus.
Abstract
Nigeria produces over 63 million tons of cassava annually, making it the world’s largest producer. However, in smallholder communities in Nigeria, there is a disparity in production quantity and processing efficiency compared to economies like Thailand, which produces less. This study examines the operational practices, constraints, and opportunities within a cassava processing association in Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria, through lens of Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus. A mixed-method approach was employed to collect survey data from 33 processors using focus group discussions and questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations, while qualitative insights were interpreted thematically.
Findings reveal a female-dominated processing sector characterized by semi-mechanized operations, strong reliance on fermentation-based products, and limited market diversification. Likewise, a statistically significant relationship (Fisher’s Exact Test = 12.466, p = 0.041) was found between energy methods and cassava product types, highlighting the association between energy access and product diversification. A major constraint identified is the lack of modern processing equipment (57.5%), which reduced processing quantity (87.9%). From a WEF nexus perspective, these limitations give a high-water use intensity, inefficient energy utilization, and reduced value addition. Despite these challenges, opportunities exist in access to land, export markets, and capacity-building initiatives, although these remain underutilized due to institutional and informational gaps. Strengthening cassava-processing systems requires integrated WEF-responsive interventions, including investment in energy-efficient technologies, enhanced capacity building as hubs for innovation and resource integration can enhance sustainability, productivity, and resilience within Nigeria’s cassava value chain.
Published
31 October 2026