Nigeria’s food security landscape received a major boost as Dangote Rice Limited signed a strategic partnership with Niger State Government, targeting one million tons of paddy rice production by 2026 and creating extensive employment opportunities across agricultural value chains.
The purchase and sale agreement between Dangote Rice and Niger State’s Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited was formalized at Dangote Industries Limited headquarters in Lagos, establishing a framework for large-scale mechanized farming and commercial agricultural development.
President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, described the agreement as pivotal to achieving food self-sufficiency in Nigeria, building on the conglomerate’s success in cement and oil refining sectors. The partnership will directly engage over 5,000 farmers through comprehensive support systems and modern agricultural techniques.
“We share the same vision with Niger Foods of establishing efficient and profitable agricultural businesses that contribute to national food sufficiency and security,” Dangote stated during the agreement ceremony. “This aligned vision toward a food-secure Nigeria demonstrates the private sector’s commitment to agricultural transformation.”
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago emphasized his administration’s strategic focus on leveraging the state’s abundant arable land and water resources for commercial agriculture. The partnership represents a significant shift from traditional farming methods to mechanized, technology-driven agricultural production.
Economic projections indicate the collaboration could generate over N18 trillion in revenue over the project timeline, while establishing Niger State as a major rice production hub alongside existing Dangote Rice operations in Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, and Nasarawa states.
Managing Director of Dangote Rice, Thabo Mabe, characterized the partnership as a milestone that will enhance rice consumer satisfaction and strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural export potential. The initiative supports the federal government’s agricultural diversification strategy and import substitution policies.
The comprehensive farming program includes provision of high-quality seeds, fertilizers, modern equipment, and technical training for participating farmers, ensuring sustainable productivity increases and guaranteed market access through Dangote’s extensive distribution network.
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