The Fortified Whole Grain Alliance (FWGA), in collaboration with Bühler and TechnoServe Nigeria, has trained six rice milling firms in Kano to enhance the quality, safety, and nutritional value of locally processed rice.
The five-day technical workshop, held at the Grain Processing Innovation Centre in Kano State, brought together rice processors from Kano and Ogun states to deepen expertise in rice milling, food fortification and safety practices.
According to the organisers, the training is part of FWGA’s broader effort to support local food processors and promote the production of fortified whole grains across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
Senior Food Science Technologist at FWGA, Johnes David, said the alliance is committed to “providing catalytic support to food processors towards increasing the production and consumption of fortified grains,” adding that the initiative is aimed at building a more resilient and inclusive food system.
Head of the Grain Processing Innovation Centre operated by Bühler, Mustapha Rajab, noted that the centre is focused on strengthening Nigeria’s grain value chain through innovation and technical capacity.
“Our goal is to strengthen Nigeria’s grain value chain by optimising local processing and fostering innovation that supports sustainable food systems,” he said.
The training featured practical sessions on paddy handling, moisture management, process optimisation, and extrusion fortification, equipping participants with skills to improve both product quality and operational efficiency.
Chairman of Didi Rice, Misbahu Lawan, described the sessions as timely, emphasising that improved processing standards would open new market opportunities for local rice brands.
A representative of TechnoServe Nigeria, Ava Bawa, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to inclusive growth within the food sector. “Equipping local processors with technical and business skills is essential for strengthening livelihoods and ensuring access to nutritious food,” she said.
She added that the workshop also served as a platform for collaboration among rice processors across different regions.
Participants received certificates of completion, marking their commitment to raising processing standards within Nigeria’s rice value chain.
