Niger Foods Sign Landmark Land Lease Agreement to Boost Rice Production in Wushishi
By Rashidat AbdulRahman
Information Officer
The Niger State Government, through the Niger Food Security System and Logistics Company Limited, has signed a land lease agreement with communities in the Wushishi Local Government Area. This agreement aims to enhance rice production and strengthen food security in the region.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday at the Niger Foods office in Minna and involves over 100 communities represented by their District Heads, Hakimis, and Village Heads, showcasing strong grassroots support for the initiative.
Mr. Sammy Adigun, Chairman of Niger Foods, addressed journalists after the signing, describing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) as a transformative step for both the state and Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
He explained that the project aims for an annual production of approximately 360,000 tons of rice, which would contribute to about 7 to 10 percent of Nigeria’s total rice demand.
“This initiative is not just about food production; it encompasses a complete value chain that will create job opportunities, particularly for young people. It will also promote community development by providing infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and schools,” Adigun said.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the national goal of achieving food sovereignty and enhancing agricultural capacity while empowering communities through employment throughout the value chain, from farming to factory operations.
Hon. Mohammed Yelwa, Chairman of Wushishi Local Government, praised the state government and Niger Foods for bringing the project to his constituency. He pledged his support and commitment to ensuring its success.
In separate remarks, the District Heads of Akera and Zungeru assured their communities of their readiness to cooperate fully to ensure the project’s success, describing it as a dream that will benefit not only the people of Niger State but Nigeria as a whole.
The project is expected to significantly boost rice production, strengthen food security, and deliver socio-economic benefits across Niger State and beyond.
