The Lagos State Government has officially launched a fortified rice initiative, positioning the state to tap into the growing global fortified rice market, projected to reach $36.6 billion by 2033, up from $20.8 billion in 2023. This surge is driven by rising concerns over malnutrition and the demand for low-cost nutritional interventions, especially in developing countries.

As part of the initiative, Lagos has commissioned a fortified rice kernel blending machine and unveiled the new Eko Rice brand, enriched with iron, zinc, cobalamin (Vitamin B12), folic acid, pyridoxine, niacin, and thiamine.

Dr. Oluwarotimi Fashola, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, described the milestone as a significant boost to the state’s food security agenda:

“By fortifying our rice, we are not only meeting rising demand but also addressing malnutrition. This is a solution that can make a tangible difference for the nutritional quality of food available to our people.”

The fortified rice will be incorporated into Lagos’ school feeding program, targeting vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, infants, and the elderly.

The project is supported by international partners, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and TechnoServe. Ayodele Tella, LSFF Portfolio Lead at TechnoServe, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to enhancing technical capacity in Nigeria’s rice processing sector and expanding rice fortification programs nationwide.

Mr. Emmanuel Audu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, highlighted the state’s investment in advanced processing facilities to ensure consistent quality and address widespread nutrient deficiencies.

Melas Adoko, Technical Specialist, Food Quality Supply at the WFP, emphasized that the initiative will improve school meal quality and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable food security.

The launch aligns with global rice market trends, with global production forecasted to reach 889 million tonnes valued at $634.8 billion by 2035. While China and India dominate production and consumption, international trade continues to grow, highlighting the economic potential of fortified rice initiatives in Nigeria.