The Kebbi State Government on Thursday officially launched fortified rice production as part of its strategy to enhance food and nutrition security in the state.
Gov. Nasir Idris inaugurated the project at the Takalau Rice Mill in Birnin Kebbi, stating that the initiative aims to position Kebbi as one of the country’s leading rice milling states.
Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Shehu Muazu, the governor described the project as a significant support for low-income earners in the state.
He explained that the fortified rice would contain essential micronutrients, including zinc, iron, folic acid, and vitamins B12, B1, B3, and B6, improving dietary quality for residents.
“This is a major achievement for the people of Kebbi, and we are grateful to our development partners, particularly the World Food Programme and TechnoServe, for their support in bringing this project to fruition,” the governor added.
The governor’s wife, Hajiya Nasare Idris, represented by Special Adviser on Budget Matters Hajiya Aisha Usman, said the initiative complements efforts to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improve public health in the state.
She reaffirmed her commitment to sustaining rice fortification and other nutrition-focused programs.
Earlier, Faruk Abubakar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, highlighted that the mill had been upgraded with additional equipment, including a sortex machine and a length grader, to improve the quality of the rice produced.
He encouraged local farmers to take advantage of the facility, assuring them of premium-quality, fortified rice output.
Representatives of development partners at the event praised the state government for prioritizing nutrition.
Mrs Owen Osaigbevo-Iniobong of the WFP said the initiative would provide nutrient-rich food to vulnerable populations.
Mr Seun Elere, Project Manager at TechnoServe, emphasized that improved nutrition is key to poverty reduction and enhanced livelihoods.
Similarly, Mr Sani Isyaku of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) commended Kebbi State’s dedication to addressing nutritional gaps and improving public health.
The launch of fortified rice production is expected to significantly strengthen the state’s food security and nutrition outcomes, benefiting both farmers and consumers.