Analysis of Agro-Processing Enterprise Management and Value Addition in the Cassava Sub-Sector in Ogun State, South West Nigeria

Agro-processing enterprises in Nigeria's cassava sub-sector have the potential to generate significant employment and income while addressing post-harvest losses and improving food security. However, management inefficiencies and limited adoption of value addition technologies continue to constrain enterprise performance. This study analysed agro-processing enterprise management practices and value addition outcomes in the cassava sub-sector in Ogun State. A purposive sample of 60 cassava processing enterprises of varying scales was selected from four major cassava production zones. Structured interviews captured enterprise management practices, production technology types, value addition levels, financial performance, and market linkages. Descriptive statistics, enterprise management scoring indices, and gross margin analysis were employed. Results revealed that enterprises adopting mechanised processing equipment achieved value addition ratios approximately 42 percent higher than manual processors, yet only 30 percent of sampled enterprises had accessed mechanisation financing. Supply chain integration with supermarkets and institutional buyers was associated with significantly better enterprise financial performance. Management capacity gaps in financial record keeping, inventory control, and quality assurance were widespread among small and medium processors. The study recommends targeted management capacity development programmes for cassava processors in Ogun State. Government incentives for equipment acquisition and market development support should also be strengthened under the state's agro-industrial development framework. Keywords: agro-processing, cassava, value addition, enterprise management, Ogun State.