AFAN wants governors invest more in rice production


The All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Kaduna State Chapter, on Wednesday urged governors to invest much in rice production to enable Nigeria to achieve self-sufficiency in rice.

The Chairman of the chapter, Alhaji Nuhu Aminu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Zaria that the investment became imperative in view of Nigeria’s need for food security.

Aminu urged governors of other states to emulate Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos who invested in rice in Kebbi.

“The Lagos State Government invested so much in rice production in Kebbi. That gave the state an opportunity to produce enough rice.

“The rice was processed, packaged and milled just like Thailand’s imported rice, but it is more nutritious and healthy.

“If our governors, especially northern governors, can take a cue from Lagos State, it will not only boost their revenue bases but also enhance national food security,’’ he said.

According to the AFAN leader, locally-produced rice is more nutritious than imported rice.

Aminu pleaded with well-meaning Nigerians to encourage the Federal Government in its diversification efforts by investing more in agriculture.

He said that investing in agriculture would actualise the diversification and create jobs.

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