Japan Constructs N26m Rice Mill In Edo State

The Japanese Government has donated a rice mill worth over N26m to the Edo State Government, as part of efforts to facilitate rice production in the state, a statement from the state government has indicated.

The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yutaka Kikuta, was quoted as saying that the Godwin Obaseki-led administration had achieved a lot in the agricultural sector.

Kikuta noted that the Japanese government-funded project would further enhance farmers’ income and foster socio-economic development of communities in the state.

He said the project, which was worth over N26m would provide rice parboiling equipment, hauler, de-husker, de-stoner machine, soaking tanks, steaming tanks, a generator and bagging machine, among others.

“The use of the facilities will enhance the quality and marketability of milled rice in this community and nearby communities, thereby enhancing the income of rice farmers as well as fostering the social and economic development of these communities in particular and Edo State,” he stated.

He said the gesture was among the Japanese Embassy’s grassroots grant assistance to increase the quality of rice production in the state.

The representative of the Edo State Governor and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, gave the assurance that the Obaseki-led administration would provide the needed assistance to ensure the success of the project.