The Dangote Group and the Niger State Government have announced a multi-billion Naira partnership aimed at boosting commercial agriculture and food security in Nigeria, with a focus on rice production, officials said at the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair in Minna on Thursday..
The conglomerate added that although it is working with the government on the Niger Food program, a substantial amount of money has been invested in the company’s rice production infrastructure in the state.
The State Government started the Niger Food Initiative, an agricultural development program, in collaboration with businesses such as the Dangote Group.
Senior Special Adviser to the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, Fatima Abdurrahman, said the company’s state-of-the-art rice mill in Wushishi is “progressing steadily and on track for completion.”
Speaking Thursday at the official opening of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair in Minna, she said: “As part of our commitment to advancing agriculture, we plan to establish one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State.”
Dangote Group is a sponsor of the 21st Trade Fair, which is organised by the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NCCIMA).
Speaking on the theme “Commercial Agriculture as the Major Contributor to Subnational Economic Growth and National GDP,” she said, “This initiative is expected to enhance food security and generate significant employment opportunities for the state’s population.
“This landmark project represents a significant step forward in bolstering the state’s food security initiatives. Upon its delivery, the mill is expected to enhance local rice production, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the agricultural development of Nigeria.”
According to her, the 32 Metric Tonnes Per Hour Mill is a cutting-edge facility developed on a 30-hectare site, designed to enhance the State’s rice production and storage capacity.
“This state-of-the-art facility incorporates the latest innovations in rice milling technology, ensuring high efficiency, minimal waste, and premium-quality output. Once operational, it will boost local rice production and strengthen the entire agricultural value chain, from farm to market,” she added.
She said the project was expected to generate employment opportunities, support local farmers with necessary inputs like fertiliser and seedlings, and contribute to the State’s food security goals.
“We will source the rice from local out growers and act as 100% off-takers of the production at competitive market prices. The Dangote Rice Mill will also feature an on-site captive power generation facility capable of producing 5.8 megawatts of electricity. The project aligns with broader efforts to reduce reliance on the national grid.”
She added that close to Wushishi, the company is constructing 32 silos, each with a storage capacity of 2,500 metric tons of paddy rice.
According to Governor Muhammad Bago, the state administration was opening the state to commercial agriculture investment. Aminu Takuma, the Trade, Investment, and Industry Commissioner, accompanied Bago.
He praised the Dangote Group and encouraged it to capitalise on the state’s favourable climate and investment prospects.
Additionally, he declared that preparations were underway to turn the Niger Trade Fair into a worldwide gathering.
Earlier, Dr. Bisi Adeniyi, President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA), urged the private sector to invest in agriculture and capitalise on the vast amount of land in Niger State.
Source: NAN
Image Credit: Premium Times
