The Dangote Group has entered into a multi-billion naira agricultural partnership with the Niger State Government aimed at transforming rice production and advancing Nigeria’s food security agenda.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair in Minna, Senior Special Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, Fatima Abdurrahman, announced that the company is investing in a high-capacity rice mill project in Wushishi. The facility, which sits on a 30-hectare site, will process 32 metric tonnes of rice per hour and is on track for completion.
Abdurrahman explained that the project is part of the Niger Food Initiative, a state-backed programme designed to stimulate agricultural development in partnership with private investors. She described the rice mill as a cutting-edge facility integrating the latest innovations in rice milling technology, with features ensuring high efficiency, reduced waste, and premium-quality output.
Once operational, the mill is expected to significantly increase local rice production while strengthening the entire agricultural value chain. It will be supported by 32 silos, each capable of storing 2,500 metric tonnes of paddy rice, and powered by a 5.8-megawatt captive power generation plant. Abdurrahman noted that this off-grid approach aligns with national efforts to ease pressure on the country’s power infrastructure.
She further revealed that the Dangote Group would serve as 100 percent off-takers of rice produced by local farmers, providing inputs such as fertilisers and seedlings. This integrated model is expected to create substantial employment opportunities and enhance the state’s agribusiness landscape.
Representing Governor Muhammed Bago, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Industry, Aminu Takuma, reiterated the state’s readiness to support large-scale agricultural investments. He praised Dangote Group’s commitment and encouraged other investors to explore Niger State’s favourable investment climate. Takuma also disclosed plans to upgrade the Niger Trade Fair into a globally recognized event.
President of the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Dr Bisi Adeniyi, urged the private sector to invest in the state’s untapped agricultural resources, highlighting its potential to drive inclusive economic growth.
Also present at the event was the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi, represented by Dr Suleiman Ladan, who emphasized that commercial agriculture remains a cornerstone of President Bola Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda.
The landmark partnership between Dangote Group and the Niger State Government marks a significant step in the drive to achieve food self-sufficiency and promote sustainable agribusiness development across Nigeria.
