In a landmark move to advance commercial agriculture in Nigeria, the Dangote Group and the Niger State Government have entered into a multi-billion naira partnership aimed at transforming the agricultural sector.
The Dangote Group revealed that it has made substantial investments in rice production infrastructure within Niger State, including its collaboration with the government on the Niger Food Initiative—a flagship agricultural development program driven by public-private partnership.
Fatima Wali Abdurrahman, Senior Special Adviser to the President and CEO of the Dangote Group, announced that the company’s ultramodern rice mill in Wushishi is making significant progress and is on track for timely completion.
She made this disclosure during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Niger National Trade Fair held in Minna, the state capital. According to her, “As part of our strategic investment in agriculture, we are establishing one of the largest rice mills here in Niger State.”
Dangote Group is a key sponsor of the 21st edition of the Trade Fair, organized by the Niger Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA).
Addressing the fair’s theme, “Commercial Agriculture as the Major Contributor to Sub-National Economic Growth and National GDP,” Abdurrahman emphasized that the project is geared toward bolstering food security and creating substantial employment for the local population.
She noted that the 32 Metric Tonnes Per Hour (MTPH) rice mill is being built on a 30-hectare site and will significantly enhance both rice production and storage capabilities in the state. “This cutting-edge facility features advanced milling technology for high efficiency, reduced waste, and premium output,” she added.
In addition to boosting production, the project is designed to uplift local farmers through support with key inputs such as fertilizers and seedlings. The company will act as the sole off-taker of rice from local growers, offering competitive market prices.
The mill will also house an on-site 5.8-megawatt captive power plant, reducing reliance on the national grid and ensuring consistent energy supply. Nearby, Dangote is also constructing 32 silos, each capable of storing 2,500 metric tons of paddy rice.
Representing Governor Umar Mohammed Bago, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Aminu Suleiman Takuma, reiterated the state’s commitment to opening up Niger for large-scale investment in commercial agriculture. He praised Dangote Group and encouraged further exploitation of the state’s investor-friendly environment.
Takuma also revealed ongoing plans to elevate the Niger Trade Fair to international status.
Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Bisi Adeniyi, President of NCCIMA, urged the private sector to leverage the vast arable land in the state to invest in agriculture.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi—represented by Dr. Suleiman Ladan—highlighted that commercial agriculture remains a central pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic development agenda.
Sahel Reporters News
