NIGERIA – The Federal Government has praised Olam Agri in Nigeria for its significant investment in boosting agricultural output and growth in the country.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, CON, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, commended the company during his inspection of their integrated Rice Farm and mill in Nasarawa state on March 28, 2024.
The inspection followed a recent courtesy call on the Minister and the Vice President by Olam Agri’s top management, expressing interest in expanding its partnership with the Federal Government to enhance agricultural productivity.
The Minister, accompanied by Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Emmanuel Akabe, and a team of technical experts, visited the Olam Agri Rice Farm. This visit provided the perfect opportunity to flag off Olam Agri’s dry season rice harvest.
Expressing satisfaction with Olam Agri’s innovative approach to raising agricultural productivity, Kyari lauded Olam’s commitment to mechanization and technology in their rice farms.
“I was particularly impressed by Olam’s commitment to leveraging mechanization and technology-driven farming methods across their 13,500-hectare fully integrated rice farming operations,” the Minister stated.
He added that, with a paddy milling capacity of 210,000 metric tons, Olam has demonstrated significant strides in agricultural productivity. Over 4,000 hectares have been cultivated, yielding an impressive 4.3 tonnes of rice per hectare.
Furthermore, the Minister commended Olam Agri’s dedication to corporate social responsibility. He cited their engagement with over 35,000 out-growers, investment in scholarships for youths, provision of learning infrastructure, and hiring of qualified teachers to deliver academic excellence across communities.
Additionally, he highlighted their support for at least 3,523 residents from 10 different communities during flood response efforts.
As part of its social investment, Olam Agri provided solar lights for six host communities and constructed and rehabilitated access roads to villages, including 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, stating, “We are thrilled by the Honourable Minister’s visit to our Rice Farm and mill.
According to him, the visit has reinforced their support for the Nigerian government’s renewed hope agenda and their readiness to engage with critical agricultural stakeholders to keep driving productivity and sustainable growth.
Nair emphasized Olam Agri’s commitment to captive supply through large-scale farming practices and ongoing investment in research and development to improve seed varieties.
He highlighted the out-growers model, providing preferential access to seeds, training, and rates for farmers, benefiting households, communities, cooperatives, and women.
“This visit will further deepen our partnership with the federal government and impact the investment landscape,” Nair added.
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