The Lagos State Government has unveiled a Biofortified Blending Machine and Biofortified Rice as part of efforts to address growing micronutrient deficiencies in the state.
The launch took place on Friday at the Lagos State Rice Mill, Imota, Ikorodu. The biofortified blending machine is the sixth of its kind in Nigeria.
Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture, said the achievement was made possible through the governor’s visionary leadership in advancing food sustainability.
“Today, we mark another key milestone in our commitment to enhance food and nutrition security for the people of Lagos State and Nigeria. Lagos is now home to one of the largest rice mills in Africa, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and expert knowledge,” Fashola said.
He added that the mill has been optimised to produce high-quality fortified rice enriched with essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, folic acid, and vitamins B1, B3, B6, and B12.
“By fortifying our rice, we are meeting the growing national demand while also addressing malnutrition, a pressing challenge for many Nigerians. This initiative can make a tangible difference in improving the nutritional quality of food available to our people,” Fashola noted.
Mr. Emmanuel Audu, Permanent Secretary at the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, described the rice mill as the “Rolls Royce of all rice mills globally” and praised the governor’s investment in ensuring the facility remains top-notch.
Audu encouraged consumers, particularly women, to prioritise the state’s Eko Rice brand, which includes the Fortified Rice, Classic Rice, and Eko Rice lines, noting their high quality and health benefits.
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, represented by Mrs. Sarah Balogun, commended the launch, stating, “This initiative is truly commendable. It will help address nutritional deficiencies in our communities and support healthier living while improving food quality. We hope this effort continues to yield positive impact and greater achievements.”
