Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, emphasized the importance of prioritizing food security and self‑sufficiency across Africa during a courtesy visit by the AfricaRice Centre to his Lagos office. He highlighted the continent’s vast agricultural potential and argued that, with the right policies, investment and modern technology, farmers can dramatically increase yields and returns. Agriculture, he noted, is a key pillar for sustainable development in Africa; it provides a major source of employment and income, and effective policy frameworks and technological advances can enable the continent to achieve food security and self‑sufficiency while unlocking growth in other sectors of the economy.
Dangote’s remarks coincided with a landmark purchase and sale agreement signed by his company, Dangote Rice Limited, and Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited. Valued at N1.8 trillion, the deal will ensure a steady supply of high‑quality paddy rice to Dangote Rice, supporting Nigeria’s broader food‑security agenda. The company’s out‑grower scheme aims to create employment opportunities and promote nationwide food self‑sufficiency.
Dr Baboucarr Manneh, Director General of AfricaRice, praised Dangote’s focus on agricultural investment, calling it a critical step toward achieving food security on the continent. He also lauded the partnership with Niger State, which has set an ambitious target of producing five million tonnes of rice over the next five years—a goal that could significantly boost rice self‑sufficiency and food security in Africa. This collaboration between Dangote Industries and Niger State could serve as a blueprint for other states and countries, demonstrating how public‑private partnerships that combine government leadership with private‑sector expertise and investment can strengthen Africa’s agricultural ecosystem and reduce reliance on food imports. Better management of imports is also essential to support local farmers and bolster domestic economies.
As Africa continues to grapple with food‑security challenges, the emphasis on agriculture and self‑sufficiency is timely. With the continent’s population projected to grow substantially, addressing food‑security concerns is critical for sustainable development and economic growth. The partnership between Dangote Industries and Niger State represents a positive step forward, and its success could have far‑reaching implications for Africa’s food security and overall economic development.
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