By Atoyebi Nike
Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc (FMN) has distinguished itself as the only private operator fully meeting the Federal Government’s conditions for the revitalisation of silo complexes across the country, underscoring its growing role in advancing food security.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, disclosed this in Abuja while providing updates on the silo concession initiative under the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC).
“Out of the 17 silo complexes conceded to five private companies, only Flour Mills of Nigeria, which operates three silo complexes under three separate Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), has met all conditions and is performing optimally,” Kyari said in a statement signed by the ministry’s Head of Information, Mr. Ezeaja Ikemefuna.
FMN’s success is rooted in its long-term agricultural strategy. Since acquiring a 10,000-hectare farm in Kaboji, Niger State, in 1978 to drive backward integration, the group has expanded into maize, wheat, soybeans, cassava, sugarcane, sorghum, and palm fruits, as well as grain storage and distribution.
Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Boye Olusanya, described the milestone as a reflection of FMN’s enduring commitment to national development.
“FMN is more than a company to Nigeria; it is a strong ally in growth and development,” he said, adding that the group’s activities remain tied to sustainability and livelihoods.
Analysts note that FMN’s performance highlights how private sector efficiency can strengthen food systems, reduce post-harvest losses, and stabilise supply chains.
Founded in 1960 as Nigeria’s pioneer wheat milling firm, FMN has grown into a diversified food and agro-allied conglomerate with its flagship Golden Penny brand a staple across households. With its mission of “Feeding and Enriching Lives, Every Day,” the group pledged to continue partnering with the Federal Government to boost food self-sufficiency, empower local farmers, and reinforce agricultural resilience.