By Abubakar Yusha’u
The Katsina State Coordinating Office of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has commenced a comprehensive survey on small-scale rice farming and production efficiency in the state.
The exercise began with an assessment visit to Rijma Rice Nigeria Limited, one of the state’s certified rice processing companies. The survey is aimed at evaluating the structure, performance and challenges within the rice value chain, with a view to establishing a mega rice cluster and developing targeted value-addition support programmes.
The RMRDC delegation was led by the State Coordinator, Mr. Abubakar Yusha’u and were received by the Marketing Director of Rijma Rice Nigeria Limited, Mr. Jamilu Musa, and the Assistant Production Manager, Mr. Lawan Adamu.
Preliminary findings indicate that Katsina State remains one of Nigeria’s leading producers of paddy rice, with annual output estimated between 450,000 and 550,000 metric tonnes. Production is largely concentrated in Malumfashi, Kafur, Danja, Bakori, Dandume and Funtua local government areas.
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Speaking during the visit, the State Coordinator of RMRDC, Mr. Abubakar Yusha’u, said the survey is part of a broader strategy to strengthen value addition and promote agro-industrial development in Katsina State. He stated that, “This assessment will help us understand the gaps in production, processing and market linkages. Our goal is to develop a mega rice cluster that supports small-scale farmers, improves productivity and creates sustainable jobs across the value chain.”
Mr. Yusha’u added that the findings from the first phase of the survey will guide a comprehensive implementation plan designed to enhance local sourcing, boost competitiveness and attract strategic partnerships.
At Rijma Rice Nigeria Limited, the survey team confirmed a certified production capacity of 72,000 metric tonnes annually. The company operates two production shifts, processing and packaging approximately 200 metric tonnes daily. While the mill relies heavily on local paddy supply, it also sources from Jigawa, Gombe and Yobe states, as well as some African countries, to meet demand.
Beyond production capacity, the survey also examined employment impact. Officials noted that the proposed rice cluster is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, benefiting farmers, processors, transporters and service providers.
On his part, the Marketing Director of Rijma Rice Nigeria Limited, Mr. Jamilu Musa, welcomed the initiative and stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between government and private sector operators. He stated that “We believe this initiative will improve coordination within the sector. With proper support and structured planning, Katsina can significantly increase its rice processing capacity and reduce dependence on external supply.”
The RMRDC Katsina State Coordinating Office reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with state ministries and industry stakeholders to position rice production as a key pillar of agro-industrial growth and food security in the state.
