A.R.N Foods and AGI Milltec have entered into a partnership to construct a rice mill in Lagos.
On Friday, A.R.N Foods’ Chairman, Nola Adetola, formalized
the agreement with AGI Milltec for the construction of a rice mill with a
production capacity of 8 tons per hour in Lagos.
This rice mill marks A.R.N Foods’ entry into the food
processing sector and underscores its dedication to quality, sustainability,
and food safety, as stated by the company. Adetola characterized the
collaboration as a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s food
challenges.
He remarked, “Our goal was not merely to produce rice for a
short period; we aimed for a long-term solution. We chose a partner with a
proven track record, seeking to grow alongside them. Our collaboration with
Milltec is focused on mutual growth.”
The chairman emphasized that the partnership with AGI
Milltec is motivated by a vision that extends beyond profit-making, aiming to
create job opportunities.
“We envision the number of individuals who will be employed
at this facility once it is operational, both directly and indirectly. We
foresee the reduction in unemployment and the positive impact we will have on
the Nigerian economy,” he noted.
Two years after rebranding as a food processing entity,
A.R.N Foods has been supplying various staple commodities, including paddy
rice, maize, soybeans, and sorghum, as highlighted by its Chief Operating
Officer, Muhuydeen Giwa.
Giwa described the company as an integrated trading and
processing organization committed to delivering high-quality and affordable
agro-products. He elaborated that the agreement between the two companies aims
to enhance their capacity to address food shortages.
Giwa emphasized that the rice mill's existence is not in
question; rather, through our collaboration with AGI Milltec, we anticipate a
reduction in costs, an improvement in quality, and year-round accessibility to
this process and product.
Emmanuel del Pozzo, Head of Africa Region at AGI Milltec,
highlighted that the manufacturing firm brings a level of expertise and quality
that resonates with Nigerians accustomed to foreign rice. He noted that AGI
Milltec will collaborate closely with Cremona construction company, whose
Managing Director, Guido Firetti, assured that they would provide technical
support for AGI Milltec's initiatives in Nigeria.
Firetti praised the rice mill project as commendable,
affirming that his company would ensure timely delivery and execution.
Vincent Matthews, Business Development Manager for AGI
Milltec in Nigeria, stated that the planned Epe Rice mill is tailored
specifically for Nigerian paddy varieties.
Matthews remarked, “We are aware of the benchmark quality
that Mr. Nola seeks. This facility is designed to meet the quality standards he
expects.”
He added, “Mr. Nola envisions future exports, and this plant
is intended to fulfill both objectives.”