Rice farmers assure Nigerians of rice supply during lockdown

The Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) has assured Nigerians that the current lockdown due to the spread of COVID-19 will not affect rice production and supply in the country.

President of the association, Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, stated this in a statement to newsmen Tuesday in Abuja.

“We have enough rice paddy produced by our farmers, we launched three of our rice pyramids in Taraba, Kano and Kebbi states, housing close to 200,000 bags of rice paddy, more are still on ground enough to feed our rice milling industries.

“We, therefore, appeal to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to buy the excess rice paddy from us as part of government’s food reserves policy,” he said.

The RIFAN president said they will continue to support government towards meeting the country’s target of rice self sufficiency and food security.

The association also called on members to work with government’s agencies like National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and Ministry of Health to curtail the spread of the Coronavirus disease in the country.

Alhaji Goronyo advised its 12 million registered rice farmers to adhere strictly to all public health directives and regulations provided by the government.

He further appealed to the farmers to take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.