Rice Producers Seek FG’s Assistance

The general manager of Labana Rice Mills Company in Kebbi State, Alhaji Alhassan Usman has attributed the current shortage and inflation of foodstuff in the country to border closure and inability of millers to produce enough food.

Speaking with journalists yesterday in Birnin Kebbi, Usman called on the federal government to empower millers with funds in order to produce enough capacity for food security in the country.

“Let the federal government assist millers with loans to enhance their capacity of production just like it has done previously but, this time around, it should be done with amendments by giving the funds directly to millers not individuals, certain organisations or farmers.

“With the current inflation rates, millers, producers of rice, corn, wheat and oil need urgent help to enhance their capacity in production’ he added.

He said the Labana company which was recently back in production has been hit by the inflation of commodities.

According to him, a 50kg bag of rice which was previously sold for between N38,000 and N40,000 is now sold at N60,000 due to the current inflation.

He commended the owners of Labana company for their dedication and tolerance in maintaining its services as well as reducing unemployment by employing thousands of youths in and outside Kebbi.