By Abdullahi Lukman
The Lagos State Government has introduced a biofortified rice brand and a biofortified blending machine to combat rising micronutrient deficiencies across the state.
The launch took place on Friday at the Lagos State Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu, marking the deployment of the sixth such blending machine in Nigeria.
Announcing the initiative, Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture, said the development reflects the state’s commitment to food and nutrition security.
He noted that the Imota mill—one of Africa’s largest—has now been upgraded to produce fortified rice enriched with iron, zinc, folic acid and vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B12.
Fashola said the fortified rice will help address persistent malnutrition while meeting increasing consumer demand for rice. He described the achievement as a significant step toward improving the nutritional quality of food accessible to Lagos residents.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Emmanuel Audu, said the investment reinforces the state’s long-term strategy for food security and sustainability.
He urged consumers to prioritise the state-produced Eko Rice varieties, including the fortified and classic options, which he described as premium-quality products.
Special Adviser on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi—represented by Sarah Balogun—commended the initiative, saying the biofortified rice will support healthier living and reduce nutrition-related deficiencies in communities.
