Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima inaugurated the Grain Processing Innovative Centre (GPIC) in Kano on Thursday, a $1 million project developed by the Swiss company Buhler in partnership with Flour Mills of Nigeria plc. The initiative aims to combat food insecurity in Nigeria and across Africa.
Represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, Vice President Shettima emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing hunger and economic challenges. “Food security is topmost on the agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration,” he stated, highlighting the government’s efforts to improve the nation’s food security and economy.
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Shettima praised the GPIC investment, describing it as a crucial step toward overcoming grain production challenges. “Nigeria produces about 33 million metric tonnes of grains annually. The GPIC will enhance our capacity to process these grains and significantly reduce losses. As we increase grain production, we will also boost processing capabilities,” he noted. He stressed the importance of sustainable solutions to ensure long-term food security.
Johannes Wick, Chief Executive Officer of Buhler’s Grains and Food division, underscored the importance of sustainable food value chains using local grains. “Our goal is to elevate industrial processing of grains, contributing to affordable nutrition,” Wick said.
Thomas Ogundiran, Managing Director of Buhler, highlighted the company’s $1 million investment in the center, aimed at impacting food production and processing across Nigeria and Africa. “Buhler is partnering with Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc and Olam to start this project in Kano, the most active grain production hub in Nigeria,” he explained. The center will process local grains such as sorghum and millet, providing a sustainable solution to food insecurity.
John Coumantaros, Chairman of the Board of Flour Mills of Nigeria, emphasized the center’s potential to transform the food value chain.
“The application center is well-positioned to sustainably develop local grains, create business opportunities, and provide viable alternatives to some imported raw materials,” he said. Coumantaros reiterated Flour Mills of Nigeria’s commitment to driving food self-sufficiency in Nigeria and across the continent.
The inauguration of the GPIC marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance food security and develop sustainable agricultural practices.
