… State Moves to Boost Food Security and Economic Growth with “Kwara Rice” Initiative
In a decisive step toward enhancing food security and promoting local production, the Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding rice farming and processing through a strategic partnership with the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria (RIMAN) and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN). This initiative will see the production of high-quality, affordable rice under the brand name “Kwara Rice”, positioning the state as a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
During a recent meeting with RIMAN and RIFAN, the Honourable Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Kwara State Ease of Doing Business Council, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, emphasized the state government’s dedication to strengthening the rice value chain. She urged stakeholders to collaborate in achieving food self-sufficiency, job creation, and economic development, while reducing dependence on imported rice.
Expanding Agricultural Growth and Infrastructure
Dr. Nuru highlighted the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose administration has prioritized agricultural development as a critical driver of economic growth. She assured rice millers and farmers of the government’s continuous support, including access to credit facilities and funding for mechanized farming.
Echoing this, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, noted that the government’s interventions—including financial assistance, fertilizer distribution, and access to modern equipment—have significantly improved agricultural productivity. She described these efforts as part of the larger plan to position Kwara as a leader in rice production across Nigeria.
Rice Millers and Farmers Call for Early Funding Support
The Chairman of RIMAN, Mr. Yakub Abdulwasiu, emphasized the importance of early access to funding and farming tools to boost production and attract private-sector investment. Similarly, Mr. Lawal Lateef, Managing Director of Lthaty-Kimg, called for financial support to acquire advanced rice processing equipment, such as destoners, color sorters, graders, water polishers, and milling machines, to enhance production capacity.
The Managing Director of Excellence Rice Mill, Mr. Abdullahi Maaruf, also praised the superior quality of Kwara-produced rice, noting that locally milled rice from the state is highly competitive compared to products from other regions.
Kwara’s Potential as a National Rice Production Hub
With its fertile soil and favorable climate, Kwara has the capacity to significantly increase rice production, according to RIFAN Coordinator, Mallam Salihu Mohammed. He reaffirmed that with sustained government support, the state could become a major contributor to Nigeria’s rice sufficiency goals.
This renewed commitment by the Kwara State Government marks another milestone in the drive towards food security, job creation, and economic prosperity, solidifying Kwara’s position as a key hub for rice production in Nigeria.
