By Sani Mohammed Sadiq
PRO Ministry for Religious Affairs
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the use of fortified rice in its school feeding program and other food-based social intervention initiatives.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs Ahmad Tijjani Auwalu, made this known during the launch of Fursa Rice Mills Company on Sunday at Kankare Layin dole Kuyan Tasidi off Madobi road.
According to him, the state government is open to potential investors and welcomes firms that can contribute to economic growth.
He congratulated Fursa Rice Mill on its establishment and praised its modern fortification capacity.
“Today I am very glad to be among the dignitaries witnessing this important and historic event.
With this fortification equipment, Fursa becomes the third rice mill in Nigeria with the capacity to produce fortified rice and the first in Kano State with such capacity,” Ahmad Tijjani Auwalu said.
He explained that the rice fortification program is a federal government initiative aimed at reducing the high rate of malnutrition, particularly micronutrient deficiencies, across the country.
The commissioner noted that Kano, with one of the highest numbers of rice mills in Nigeria especially integrated mills is strategically positioned to play a key role in the pilot phase of the program.
Earlier, the General Manager of Fursa Rice Mills, Alhaji Kabiru Abubakar emphasized that fortified rice will improve access to essential minerals and vitamins for vulnerable groups in Kano, helping to address malnutrition.
He noted that the rice contains zinc, iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, B1, B3, and B6, which are vital for better nutrition.
Alhaji Kabiru also assured the state government of the company’s full cooperation in boosting the local economy and improving the health of the people.
