The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has called on investors to significantly invest in the rice value chain in Ebonyi.
The Director-General of RMRDC, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Muonso, made the appeal on Wednesday at an investors’ value chain development summit in Abakaliki.
Ike-Muonso emphasized the potential of Ebonyi’s rice industry, stating that the council recognizes the need for substantial investment to meet both local and national demands.
“We aim to create a conducive environment for investors within and outside Nigeria to tap into this opportunity.
“Ebonyi has consistently contributed to Nigeria’s rice production, positively impacting the state’s and the nation’s economy,” he said.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to boosting the economy through value addition to raw materials and converting waste into wealth.
Ebonyi’s Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief Nnanna Elechi, noted that the summit was timely, highlighting that the state’s agricultural potential extends beyond rice production.
“The theme, ‘Exploiting Investment Opportunities in the Rice Value Chain in Ebonyi,’ highlights the state’s strategic position in Nigeria’s rice industry,” he said.
Under Gov. Francis Nwifuru’s leadership, Elechi added, Ebonyi has introduced technological innovations to enhance rice and overall agricultural productivity.
“This event connects farmers with offtakers and exposes them to new rice production initiatives,” he said.
Dr. Stephen Odoh, Director-General of the Ebonyi Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (EBSMEDA), stated that the state’s secure environment fosters business growth.
As the keynote speaker, Odoh assured investors of a safe environment with promising returns.
“Gov. Nwifuru has created an enabling environment for SMEs, which is key to reducing crime. We urge the Bank of Industry (BOI) to provide accessible loans to farmers to boost agricultural output,” he said.
Mrs. Nnenna Agbafor, the RMRDC State Coordinator, thanked participants for their dedication to rice production.
She highlighted the summit’s focus on waste-to-wealth initiatives, financial support, and modern processing technologies.
Miss Irene Okafor, a participant, pledged to apply the knowledge gained to increase her rice production capabilities.
