From a U.S. Career to a Cassava Empire: How Tunde Built a Leading Garri Brand in Nigeria
Mr. Tunde left a comfortable and well-paying corporate career in the United States to return home and pursue a long-held dream—creating one of Nigeria’s most recognized garri brands. Today, his agribusiness, Tund Farms Limited, stands as a testament to vision, dedication, and a deep connection to cultural roots.
The Journey Back Home
After several years of working in California, Tunde decided to return to Nigeria to launch a full-scale agribusiness. Inspired by childhood memories of his mother’s homemade garri and early experiences comparing different varieties in boarding school, he believed he could bring a unique and high-quality product to market. That idea matured into what is now a flourishing enterprise.
Building from the Ground Up
Established in 2019, Tund Farms started with a modest cassava processing facility. The company’s operations span both processing and farming, using a backward integration model where cassava is grown, harvested, and processed in-house. This approach has allowed the company to control quality at every stage, from soil to shelf.
At the heart of the business is garri production, but the brand has since diversified. Alongside garri, the company also produces yam flour, plantain flour, moringa seeds, date fruits (sliced and seedless), and signature plantain snacks. Their commitment to quality has earned them recognition in major supermarkets across Nigeria and beyond.
Innovation in Processing
The factory operates with both electric and traditional firewood fryers to roast the garri. Once the cassava is harvested, it goes through washing, grinding, fermentation, and pressing. The garri is sieved and roasted, and before final packaging, it is meticulously sorted by hand to remove impurities such as sticks and dark particles. This attention to detail has become a trademark of the Tund Farms brand.
Production is not just about quantity; it’s about cleanliness and consumer satisfaction. Every batch is passed through a shaker that separates residue from the final product, ensuring the garri meets the highest standard.
The Farm Behind the Brand
Tund Farms also owns and manages extensive farmland in various locations within Osun State. One of the core estates includes several acres where cassava is cultivated. Some of the land is planted with maize, plantain, cowpea, watermelon, and cucumber, which are used both for sale and for raw material processing.
Tunde’s team also helps individuals invest in agriculture by selling plots of farmland and providing management services. This allows aspiring agropreneurs to participate in the sector with support and guidance.
A Vision Rooted in Impact
With a farmhouse for workers, proper storage facilities, and a rotation of seasonal crops, Tund Farms is more than just a business—it’s an ecosystem. Tunde is passionate about sharing knowledge, frequently educating others through social media and YouTube about the opportunities in agribusiness. He believes agriculture can be a sustainable pathway to wealth creation, job opportunities, and national development.
