A bill proposing the creation of a National Rice Development Council aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s rice industry has passed second reading in the Senate.
The legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Rice Development Council of Nigeria to provide guidance on Rice Research, comprehensive development of the rice sector, and the organization of rice stakeholders to enhance local production of rice in Nigeria and for related matters, 2025 (SB. 541),” seeks to unify and coordinate stakeholders across the rice value chain which includes farmers, processors, millers, researchers, and marketers to boost domestic production and improve efficiency.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the plenary, referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Agriculture for further review.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Adamu Aliero (APC, Kebbi Central), was previously passed by the 9th Senate and forwarded to the Presidency in 2023. However, it did not receive assent before the change in administration.
Leading the debate, Senator Aliero emphasized Nigeria’s comparative advantage in rice cultivation and stressed the urgent need for a centralized body to streamline and support the sector’s growth.
“The Council will provide a structured platform for the comprehensive development of Nigeria’s rice sector,” Aliero said, citing the fragmented state of the industry due to the proliferation of uncoordinated associations such as the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, Rice Processors Association of Nigeria, and several others.
He noted that the lack of a central regulatory framework has hindered efficiency and reduced the sector’s potential to meet national food demands and explore export opportunities.
Key benefits of the proposed Council include:
Boosting Rice Production: By coordinating research, development, and training, rice yields and quality are expected to improve significantly.
Increasing Farmers’ Income: Enhanced efficiency and better market access will help raise farmers’ earnings.
Strengthening Food Security: A stable and efficient rice supply chain is crucial to national food stability.
Regulating the Industry: The Council would oversee quality control, monitor practices, and curtail adulteration.
Expanding Market Opportunities: The Council will promote Nigerian rice locally and internationally, and facilitate trade agreements.
Creating Jobs: Growth in farming, processing, and marketing activities will open up employment across the value chain.
Driving Economic Growth: The rice sector will contribute meaningfully to the country’s GDP.
Promoting Self-Sufficiency: Reducing reliance on rice imports could save Nigeria up to $2.5 billion annually.
Senator Aliero concluded that establishing the Council would attract investments, reduce rural-urban migration, and support sustainable economic development.
“Rice is a staple in the Nigerian diet. With the right institutional framework, we can not only feed our population but also position Nigeria as a major exporter on the global stage,” he said.
The bill has been forwarded to the Senate Committee on Agriculture for further consideration before its third reading.
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