Dangote Group and Niger State Unveil Ambitious Rice Production Project

The Dangote Group has partnered with Niger State to launch a multi-billion naira rice project, enhancing local rice production and food security. A new mill in Wushishi will have a capacity of 32 tonnes per hour, supported by significant infrastructure, and aims to create jobs while assisting local farmers.

The Dangote Group has recently announced a significant agricultural collaboration with the Niger State Government, aimed at enhancing rice production and reinforcing food security in Nigeria. This initiative was disclosed by Fatima Abdurrahman, the Senior Special Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, during the inauguration of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair held in Minna.

Abdurrahman outlined that the Dangote Group is channeling substantial investment into a rice mill project located in Wushishi, which boasts a capacity of 32 metric tonnes per hour. The site, sprawled over 30 hectares, is said to be developing well, with progress aligned for timely completion.

This mill project is a crucial part of the Niger Food Initiative, an agricultural development program created in collaboration with the private sector, according to state officials. Abdurrahman emphasized the company’s dedication to agriculture, mentioning, “As part of our commitment to advancing agriculture, we plan to establish one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State.”

Furthermore, Abdurrahman detailed that this high-capacity mill will significantly elevate rice production and storage capabilities in Niger State. She described it as an advanced facility that utilizes cutting-edge milling technology, stating: “This state-of-the-art facility ensures high efficiency, minimal waste, and premium-quality output.”

Once operational, the mill is expected to not only enhance local rice production but also fortify the agricultural value chain, facilitating movement from farm to market. Moreover, the project will be accompanied by 32 silos, each capable of holding 2,500 metric tonnes of paddy rice and will feature a captive power generation unit producing 5.8 megawatts of electricity to lessen reliance on the national grid.

Abdurrahman confirmed that the Dangote Group would assume the role of 100 percent off-takers for the rice produced by local out-growers. Additionally, the group is committed to sourcing essential agricultural inputs like fertilizers and seedlings for local farmers. She asserted that this initiative is set to “generate significant employment opportunities and contribute to the agricultural development of Nigeria.”

Aminu Takuma, Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, spoke on behalf of Governor Muhammed Bago, expressing Niger State’s readiness for extensive investments in agriculture. He praised the Dangote Group’s efforts and encouraged further investment, highlighting the state’s supportive business climate.

Moreover, Takuma announced plans for upgrading the Niger Trade Fair to an international standard, a move that could further stimulate economic activity in the region. Meanwhile, Dr. Bisi Adeniyi, President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, urged private stakeholders to tap into the great agricultural potential of the state.

Finally, Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Dr. Suleiman Ladan, remarked on the significance of commercial agriculture in the economic development goals outlined by President Bola Tinubu.

In conclusion, the partnership between the Dangote Group and the Niger State Government marks a significant step forward in boosting rice production and enhancing food security in Nigeria. The initiative promises not only to elevate local agricultural practices but also to create jobs and support farmers through sourcing essential supplies. With both state officials and industry leaders expressing optimism, this project could potentially reshape the agricultural landscape in Niger.

Original Source: punchng.com