Dangote Group Partners with Niger State to Enhance Rice Production

The Dangote Group has launched a multi-billion naira rice production initiative with the Niger State Government to enhance food security. The project entails a state-of-the-art rice mill in Wushishi and aims to support local farmers while creating numerous job opportunities. The initiative aligns with broader agricultural development goals under the Niger Food Initiative.

In a significant move to enhance food security in Nigeria, the Dangote Group has entered into a multi-billion naira agricultural partnership with the Niger State Government aimed at ramping up rice production. This announcement was made by Fatima Abdurrahman, Senior Special Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair, which took place in Minna.

Abdurrahman detailed plans for a robust 32 metric tonnes per hour rice mill located in Wushishi, emphasizing that this facility is situated on a 30-hectare plot of land. The project is reportedly “progressing steadily and on track for completion,” she confirmed, underscoring the importance of this initiative within the framework of the Niger Food Initiative – a collaboration between the state government and private sector actors focused on agricultural development.

“We plan to establish one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State,” the Dangote representative stated clearly, highlighting the mill’s significant capacity to improve local rice production and storage capabilities. Abdurrahman described this high-tech facility as “cutting-edge,” incorporating modern innovations in rice milling technology that will enhance efficiency and product quality.

The infrastructure will include 32 silos, each with the capability to hold 2,500 metric tonnes of paddy rice, along with a captive power generation facility that will supply 5.8 megawatts of electricity. This setup will not only optimize the milling process but also reduce dependence on the national grid, aligning with national energy strategies.

In addition to the mill, the Dangote Group is committed to sourcing inputs, such as fertilizers and seedlings, for local farmers. Abdurrahman stated that the company will also serve as the exclusive off-taker for rice generated by local out-growers, a move expected to create substantial employment opportunities and facilitate agricultural growth within the region.

Aminu Takuma, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, represented Governor Muhammed Bago at the event and expressed Niger State’s readiness for substantial agricultural investment. His remarks included encouragement for the Dangote Group to maximize the state’s favorable investment climate.

Furthermore, Takuma mentioned that the state government is in the process of elevating the Niger Trade Fair to an international level, enhancing its visibility and impact.

Dr. Bisi Adeniyi, President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, echoed a call to action for private sector entities to leverage the state’s new agricultural opportunities.

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi, represented by Dr. Suleiman Ladan, reinforced that commercial agriculture is a vital component of President Bola Tinubu’s overarching economic development strategy. His statements reflect the government’s dedication to fostering agricultural practices that can secure a prosperous future for Nigeria’s economy.

The Dangote Group’s partnership with Niger State marks a pivotal development in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. By investing in a state-of-the-art rice mill, the initiative promises to enhance local rice production while improving food security. With additional support for local farmers and a commitment to sustainability, this project could generate significant employment opportunities, contributing to broader economic growth in the region and aligning with national objectives.

Original Source: punchng.com