The Abakaliki Rice Mill Industry has announced the commencement of modern production and bagging processes as part of efforts to meet international standards.
Executive Chairman of the Industry, Mr. Linus Obeji, explained that the mill has introduced compulsory removal of stones and chaff before packaging, aligning its operations with global best practices.
Obeji expressed pride in the growing presence of the Abakaliki rice brand across Nigerian markets and in neighbouring countries. He commended both federal and state governments for their support, particularly through the provision of inputs, loans, and grants to farmers.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and FADAMA for creating an enabling environment for agricultural production in Ebonyi State and across Nigeria.
“The Abakaliki Rice Mill Industry has made significant progress in cultivation, harvesting, processing, bagging, and distribution. We now operate with modern machinery and improved manpower,” Obeji stated.
According to him, the industry has implemented a strict policy that no rice is bagged or distributed without first undergoing thorough destoning and cleaning.
“We have standard operating procedures in place, supported by the intervention of Governor Francis Nwifuru. The mill is equipped with machines for destoning, sorting, polishing, bagging, and distribution,” he said.
Obeji added that the industry has the capacity to supply rice consistently to markets within Ebonyi State, across Nigeria, and beyond.
“Our customers include buyers from Cameroon, Niger, and other neighbouring countries. Prices have dropped significantly—from ₦36,000 earlier in the year to between ₦15,000 and ₦16,000 per bag—making the rice more affordable,” he noted.
He further explained that the mill produces various rice types and brands, including both long grain and short grain varieties such as Mass and CP.