The largest processing factor of ofada rice in South Western Nigeria, Brainfield Agro Limited has commenced operations in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Currently, the firm’s rice processing machine, which is the largest in the South West, has a production capacity of 9000 tonnes per annum.
According to the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Abayomi Oladipo, the rice processing plant is committed to the creation of a niche for Ofada rice production in Oyo State, Nigeria and overseas.
He explained that the company, with a current workforce of over 100 farmers, plans to make the state one of the major rice-producing states in the country.
The company’s COO made the explanation while playing host to the Commissioner for Agriculture in Oyo State, Hon. Ojemuyiwa Ojekunle, on Monday.
The commissioner, who was accompanied by staff members of his Ministry, commended the initiative of the company’s chairman, Mr. Olukayode Ajala, for deeming it fit to set up an agricultural industry in the state.
He stressed that the state will give necessary support to ensure the smooth operation of the industry.
Earlier in her address, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Alhaja Bolatumi Oloko, encouraged the Chairman and management of the firm to always consider youths and farmers of the host communities for employment.
She also advised the management to bring the partnership proposal to the Ministry for necessary actions and consideration.
In his remark, Oyo State Director, National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Mr. Dambaba Nehemiah, said that it is one of the duties of the institute to give necessary support to any Nigerian that wants to invest in the rice sector.
He maintained that the institute decided to give technical support to Brainfield Agro Limited because it is the only indigenous rice processing plant that is focusing one hundred per cent on Ofada rice production.