In a landmark move to boost food security and agricultural development, Niger State has signed a ₦1.8 trillion paddy rice production and offtake agreement with Dangote Rice Limited. The deal, inked at the Lagos office of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, aims to supply high-quality paddy rice and create 50,000 direct jobs over 10 years.
Chairman of Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Ltd., Sammy Adigun, said the state will develop 25,000 hectares of commercial rice farms and support 50,000 smallholder farmers. The initiative will also harness water resources from Rivers Niger and Kaduna to enhance rice cultivation.
Read also:
- FG reaffirms drive to boost farm productivity, jobs, food security
- US Consulate, Pelse Consulting groom young Nigerian entrepreneurs for community impact
- Nigeria earns ₦12.81trn from crude oil exports in Q3 2025 as oil tightens grip on trade
- NCDMB unveils project WADORE to boost skilled Nigerian oil, gas talent
- Firm to host 10-day free wellness programme for entrepreneurs
Alhaji Dangote noted the agreement aligns with ongoing investments in rice mills and plantations across six Nigerian states. He praised Niger’s commitment to mechanised farming and called for more private sector involvement in commercial agriculture.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago expressed confidence in the state’s ability to feed the nation, citing its vast arable land and water resources. The partnership promises not only a guaranteed market for local farmers but also long-term economic and social impact through job creation and value chain development.
