The Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong has inaugurated a new production plant for NASCO Foods Company in Jos.
Governor Lalong appreciated the company for its consistent contribution to the economic development of the State and Nigeria at large.
He commended the Executive Chairman, Management and Staff of NASCO for sustaining the virtues of its founding father, the Late Dr. Ahmed Idris Nasreddin who laid a solid foundation 57 years ago, nurtured the company to growth and prosperity before his demise.
He said “NASCO is one of the few companies whose chronicles can be written alongside the history of Plateau State and Nigeria especially because it bears all the hallmarks of endurance, durability, immense potential, and a unique talent for survival.”
Governor Lalong said “before Government started to promote self-sufficiency in food production – a policy which encouraged Nigerians to produce what they eat, NASCO’s adoption of the policy of back-ward integration in sourcing maize as its chief input for the production of cornflakes which empowered thousands of farmers on the Plateau and across many locations in central Nigeria. This had directly impacted on the volume and quality of the maize that its suppliers were cultivating. Cumulatively, this process now integrates into the Buhari administration’s drive to develop the agriculture commodity supply chain, for which maize has been recognised as one of the most important commodities. The overall goal of this initiative, of course, is the creation of jobs and wealth for Nigerians”.
Lalong satated that the State has also attracted more investors who have started businesses particularly within the Small and Medium Enterprises category.
He said it brought more jobs to Plateau citizens and also boosted the State’s Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.
“While we commend NASCO for its patriotism and resilience in Plateau, I urge all citizens and indeed other business organisations to continue to be good Ambassadors of Plateau State. We should avoid carelessly de-marketing the State on account of one minor unpleasant incidence. When we go to the social media and elsewhere to spread exaggerated or fake news that creates fear and anxiety in the heart of prospective investors, it discourages them from coming to do business in the State. We are glad that NASCO resisted this temptation over the years and today, they are the leading manufacturing company not only in Plateau State but in the country” he said.
Executive Chairman of NASCO Dr. Attia Nasreddin while appreciating the Plateau State and Nigerian Governments said the company has received tremendous support and encouragement to overcome the challenges over the years that lead to the growth of the company.
He said the new plant which boasts of state-of-the-art technology would double it production capacity, enhance the working conditions for its staff and also improve environmental sustainability.
Confidence Okwuchi
