By Atoyebi Nike
The Rice Millers Association of Nigeria (RIMAN) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise local rice production by empowering Nigerian farmers and millers, warning that continued reliance on imported rice threatens food security and weakens the national economy.
Speaking exclusively in Jos, Plateau State, RIMAN President Peter Daman said several rice millers, including himself, have shut down operations due to a lack of power supply, soaring diesel prices, insecurity, and inconsistent government policies.
“We’ve invested so much in the rice value chain, but the only response we get from government is ‘we’ll get back to you,’” Daman lamented. “Even I have closed my operations because I can’t keep running on diesel, and there’s no electricity in my area. Vandals are worsening the situation.”
He revealed that insecurity and farm thefts are driving many rice farmers out of business. “We plant rice, but before daybreak, thieves harvest it. Farmers are being kidnapped, and the Agro Rangers promised by the state government are nowhere to be found.”
According to him, the influx of imported rice is undermining local production, making it impossible for farmers to compete. “How can you buy a bag of fertilizer at ₦50,000 and then sell your rice for ₦20,000 or ₦30,000? There’s no profit,” he said.
Daman called for urgent policy reforms to reduce input costs and protect local producers. “You can’t raise fuel prices and expect affordable food production. We need a special fuel subsidy for farmers and millers, and import waivers on rice must end.”
He also blamed inconsistent government policies for the collapse of many rice businesses. “People invested heavily when government policies supported local rice. But now, some are selling their machines or drowning in debt from bank loans. The interest rates are unbearable. You can’t run a business in this kind of environment.”
