The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, launched WACOT Rice Limited’s 2024 dry season farming inputs distribution to out-grower farmers in Argungu, Kebbi State.
The out-grower programme aims to improve smallholder farmer livelihoods through agri-input financing, capacity-building, and agronomic practices.
At the launch, Kyari inspected WACOT Rice’s 250,000-ton mill, set to be inaugurated later this year, expressing satisfaction with its potential to boost farmers’ productivity and income.
Commending WACOT Rice and its parent company, Tropical General Investments Group, Kyari highlighted their commitment to empowering farmers nationwide, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope eight-point agenda.
Kyari said, “I am impressed with what I have seen. This project is heading in the right direction, utilizing farm produce from local farmers.
The government stands ready to support initiatives like WACOT Rice, recognizing their potential to create jobs and improve livelihoods.
As part of our strategic focus, we are actively considering creating farmland for WACOT Rice, further enhancing our agricultural capabilities.”
The Chairman of WACOT Rice, Farouk Gumel, emphasized the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s food security. He highlighted the inclusivity of the out-grower programme, supporting farmers with certified seeds, agrochemicals, and training sessions.
Gumel expressed enthusiasm for hosting special guests, stating, “Whenever we have special guests visit us here, we get very excited. The feedback we receive encourages us to intensify our efforts in production.
This encouragement is what propelled us to undertake some of the initiatives we have implemented.
If more investors in Nigeria extend their reach into the rural economy and replicate similar projects, our country could gain an unparalleled competitive advantage.”
