Sokoto State government has partnered Dangote Rice Limited to cultivate 5000 hectares of land for rice plantation, in an effort to reduce rice importation into the country.
The scheme is an initiative of Sokoto State Government in agreement with local farmers in the state.
TVC News Suleiman Nasir was at the flag-off of the project and reports that Faleliya, a farming community in Goronyo Local government area of Sokoto State plays host to the dignitaries to witness the launch of the Dangote Rice Outgrower scheme.
The scheme is intended to engage 15,000 farmers to cultivate 5000 hectares of land for rice production.
It is a Sokoto State Government initiative, supported by Dangote Rice Limited to engage local farmers by supporting their farming activities.
The Sokoto State Government and Dangote Rice limited will supply local farmers with high yielding seedlings and other technical farm implements as well as serve as a ready market for their farm produce.
To ensure commitment of all parties, a memorandum of Understanding was signed to this effect
Speaking to the farmers, His Eminence The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III cautioned the famers not to abuse this rare opportunity handed to them.
Nigerians consume more than six and half million metric tonnes of rice annually, with less than half of it produced locally and this initiative is expected contribute to bridging that gap.
