Nigerian Government Commends Agric Firm for Investment in RVC
The Federal Government has lauded Olam Agri for its substantial investment in enhancing agricultural productivity and growth in the country, particularly the rice value chain.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, extended commendations to the company during his recent inspection of Olam Agri’s integrated Rice Farm and mill located in Nasarawa State.
The Minister’s visit, accompanied by Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, and a team of technical experts, served as an opportunity to inaugurate Olam Agri’s dry season rice harvest. Sen. Kyari expressed admiration for the company’s innovative approach to boosting agricultural productivity, particularly highlighting their mechanization and technology-driven farming methods employed across their expansive 13,500-hectare fully integrated rice farming operations.
Impressed by the scale and efficiency of Olam Agri’s operations, Sen. Kyari noted that the company has demonstrated remarkable strides in agricultural productivity, achieving an impressive yield of 4.3 tonnes of rice per hectare on over 4,000 cultivated hectares.
Moreover, the Minister commended Olam Agri’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, citing their extensive engagement with over 35,000 out-growers, investment in youth scholarships, provision of learning infrastructure, and support for flood response initiatives benefiting thousands of residents across multiple communities.
In addition to their social investments, Olam Agri has made significant contributions to local infrastructure development, including the provision of solar lights for six host communities and the construction and rehabilitation of access roads to various villages, notably the 9 km Olegokpa – Achepe – Obendo Road.
Anil Nair, Country Head & Managing Director of Olam Agri in Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the Minister’s visit, emphasizing the company’s alignment with the Federal Government’s agenda for agricultural revitalization.
Nair highlighted Olam Agri’s continued investment in research and development to enhance seed varieties, improve yield potential, and mitigate environmental threats.
He emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth through its out-growers model, which provides preferential access to seeds, training, and support for farmers, households, and communities.
Nair concluded by affirming Olam Agri’s readiness to deepen its partnership with the federal government and further contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural development and investment landscape.
Agro Nigeria / Foluke Ibitomi
