The Kebbi government, on Thursday, inaugurated

the production of fortified rice as part of efforts to strengthen food and nutrition security in the state.

Governor Nasir Idris, who launched the rice production at the Takalau Rice Mill in Birnin Kebbi, said the aim was to position the state as one of the milling states in the country.

The governor, represented by the commissioner for agriculture and natural resources, Shehu Muazu, described the project as “a major boost for low-income earners in the state.”

He said the initiative would improve access to rice fortified with essential micronutrients, including zinc, iron, folic acid and vitamins B12, B1, B3 and B6.

He added that “this is a great win for the people of Kebbi. We appreciate the support of our development partners, particularly the World Food Programme (WFP) and TechnoServe, in making this project a reality.”

The governor’s wife, Nasare Idris, represented by the special adviser on budget matters, Aisha Usman, said the project aligned with efforts to address micronutrient deficiencies and improve public health outcomes in the state.

She reaffirmed her commitment to sustaining rice fortification and other nutrition-related interventions.

Earlier, Faruk Abubakar, the permanent secretary, ministry of agriculture and natural resources, said the mill had been further upgraded with additional equipment, including a sortex machine and a length grader, to enhance rice quality.

He urged local farmers to utilise the facility, assuring them of premium quality, fortified rice output.

Representatives of development partners at the event commended the state government for prioritising nutrition.

Owen Osaigbevo-Iniobong of WFP said the project would help to deliver nutrient-rich food to vulnerable populations.

On his part, Seun Elere, the project manager at TechnoServe, said that improved nutrition was critical to poverty reduction and livelihood improvement.

Similarly, Sani Isyaku of Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), praised the state’s commitment to closing nutritional gaps. 

(NAN)