Lagos State launches rice biofortification training to boost food security

The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has launched a training initiative for rice millers and regulatory agencies to promote rice biofortification. Held at the Lagos Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu, the workshop aims to enhance food security and improve the nutritional quality of rice produced within the state.

Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture and Food Systems, stated that the initiative seeks to address micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children and young people, by adding essential vitamins and minerals to polished rice. The program emphasizes the importance of technical expertise and stakeholder collaboration to achieve large-scale production of fortified rice.

As part of this development, the Lagos State Rice Company Ltd. has officially introduced ‘Eko Fortified Rice’ to its product lineup, joining its existing ‘Eko Rice Farm Fresh’ and ‘Eko Rice Classic’ offerings. The fortified rice facility was established with support from various development partners, including the World Food Programme, TechnoServe, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.