Dangote Group Partners with Niger State on Major Rice Project
The Dangote Group has announced a partnership with Niger State to develop a large-scale rice milling facility. This initiative aims to enhance local rice production and food security in Nigeria, involving significant investments, innovative technologies, and collaboration with local farmers. Project completion is on schedule, with plans for related agricultural support and job creation in the region.
The Dangote Group has partnered with the Niger State Government in a significant multi-billion naira agriculture initiative aimed at increasing rice production and enhancing Nigeria’s food security. This partnership was revealed by Fatima Abdurrahman, the Senior Special Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, during the opening of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair held in Minna.
Abdurrahman shared that the conglomerate plans a major investment in a rice mill project that will produce 32 metric tonnes of rice per hour. The facility is being developed in Wushishi and is built on a sprawling 30-hectare site. She noted that construction is moving along smoothly and is on schedule for completion.
This ambitious rice mill is a component of the Niger Food Initiative, which is a state-driven agricultural development program that collaborates with the private sector. Abdurrahman expressed, “As part of our commitment to advancing agriculture, we plan to establish one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State.”
Describing the project, Abdurrahman emphasized that the mill would significantly enhance rice production and storage capacities within the state. “This cutting-edge facility incorporates the latest innovations in rice milling technology,” she asserted. According to her, once completed, it will not only boost local production but will also strengthen the agricultural value chain from farms to markets.
Further details revealed that the mill will feature 32 silos, each capable of storing 2,500 metric tonnes of paddy rice. Additionally, there will be a dedicated power generation unit producing up to 5.8 megawatts of electricity, which aims to lessen dependency on the national grid.
Dangote Group has committed to acting as 100% off-takers for rice produced by local farmers, also providing them with essential resources like fertilizers and seedlings. Abdurrahman highlighted the project’s potential to create significant job opportunities and play a role in Nigeria’s agricultural advancement.
Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Aminu Takuma, spoke on behalf of Governor Muhammed Bago, stating that Niger State is eager for agricultural investment. He applauded Dangote Group’s involvement and encouraged them to leverage the state’s conducive investment climate.
In addition, Takuma mentioned ongoing efforts to upgrade the Niger Trade Fair to an international status. Dr. Bisi Adeniyi, President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, urged private investors to tap into the state’s rich agricultural resources.
Meanwhile, Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Dr. Suleiman Ladan, noted that commercial agriculture is essential to President Bola Tinubu’s economic strategy.
In summary, the Dangote Group’s partnership with the Niger State Government marks a pivotal step toward boosting local rice production and food security in Nigeria. With the establishment of a state-of-the-art rice mill and significant investments in agricultural resources, this initiative is set to enhance the agricultural landscape in the region while creating jobs and supporting local farmers. As Niger State positions itself as a hub for agricultural investment, the collaboration between public and private sectors demonstrates a commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
Original Source: punchng.com
