KWSG Reaffirms Commitment to Boosting Rice Production

In a bold move to strengthen food security and promote local production, the Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing rice production by partnering with the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria (RIMAN) and the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN). This initiative aims to produce high-quality, affordable rice under the brand name "Kwara Rice."

The Honourable Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Kwara State Ease of Doing Business Council, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, made this known on recently during a courtesy visit by RIMAN and RIFAN, alongside the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, to the Ease of Doing Business Council.

Dr. Nuru emphasized the importance of strengthening the rice value chain, urging stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring food security, job creation, economic stimulation, and reduced dependency on imported rice. She highlighted the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration’s unwavering support for agricultural development, which aims to drive down the cost of rice, enhance food self-sufficiency, and increase state revenue.

Dr. Nuru assured RIMAN and RIFAN of the government's continued partnership to expand the rice value chain and improve access to credit facilities for millers, enabling them to scale up production. She praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his visionary leadership and significant contributions to agriculture, infrastructure, and economic growth in Kwara State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, also commended the government's extensive support for farmers through financial assistance, fertilizer distribution, modern equipment, and chemicals. She emphasized that these interventions have created a more enabling environment for agricultural growth and positioned Kwara as a key player in Nigeria’s rice production.

The Chairman of RIMAN, Mr. Yakub Abdulwasiu, stressed the need for early access to funding and farming tools to boost production, attract investment, and enhance food security. Similarly, the Managing Director of Lthaty-Kimg, Mr. Lawal Lateef, appealed for financial support to acquire essential equipment such as destoners, color sorters, graders, water polishers, and milling machines to expand rice production.

Reiterating the high quality of Kwara-produced rice, the Managing Director of Excellence Rice Mill, Mr. Abdullahi Maaruf, noted that locally milled rice from the state can compete favorably with those from other regions.

The Coordinator of RIFAN, Mallam Salihu Mohammed, highlighted Kwara’s fertile soil and favorable climate, affirming that with the right government support, the state has the potential to significantly scale up rice production.

This renewed commitment by the Kwara State Government marks another milestone in the drive towards food security, job creation, and economic growth, solidifying Kwara's position as a leading hub for rice production in Nigeria.

Babatunde Toyin

Press Secretary, 

MoF

08032198900