Lagos, Nigeria: In a bid to address the growing demand for rice consumption in Lagos State, the government has taken a significant step by releasing 20,000 bags of rice in November.
The Special Adviser made the announcement to Governor Bababjide Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, during an inspection tour of the Lagos Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu.
This move is seen as a strategic effort to meet the needs of the estimated 25 million residents, with the released bags representing 10% of the total rice consumption requirement.
Situated on 8.5 hectares of land in Imota, Ikorodu, the Lagos Rice Mill is a crucial regional agricultural plant.
Built in 2021 and scheduled to commence total production in the first quarter of 2023, as outlined by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the mill holds promise for bolstering the local rice production industry.
Dr. Fashola’s announcement came as part of the preparation for the upcoming Yuletide festivities, ensuring a steady supply of rice for the residents during the celebratory season.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, further emphasized the government’s commitment to meeting the rice demands of Lagosians.
She assured that the Imota rice mill would soon be inaugurated, marking a milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance food security and promote self-sufficiency in rice production.
The state’s collaboration with the Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE) is also noteworthy, with a funding agreement signed to raise US$216 million from investors. This financial injection aims to reinforce the operations of the Imota rice mill, unlocking its total production capacity.
The Imota rice mill, a vital component of the state’s agricultural infrastructure, holds the potential to not only meet local demand but also contribute to the economic growth of Lagos State.
As the government works towards inaugurating the mill, residents can anticipate a more robust and autonomous rice production sector, reducing reliance on external sources.
The move aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision to transform Lagos into an agricultural hub, providing employment opportunities and ensuring food security for its burgeoning population.
The focus on the Imota rice mill underscores the state’s commitment to harnessing its agricultural potential and addressing the needs of its residents.
As the Yuletide season approaches, the timely release of 20,000 bags of rice signifies a proactive approach to guaranteeing a festive season filled with abundance and joy for Lagosians.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
