By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has officially unveiled NASACCO Gold rice, a state-owned brand produced through a partnership between the Nasarawa State Government and Silvex International, a leading rice processing company.
The rice, processed from paddy sourced from the state-owned rice farms in Jangwa and Agwatashi, was launched on Tuesday in Lafia as part of efforts to boost food security, attract investment, and promote sustainable agricultural development in the state.
Governor Sule said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agricultural Policy of the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government, which prioritises food security, private sector participation, value addition, and inclusive economic growth.
He disclosed that NASACCO Gold rice would be sold to residents at a 10 per cent discount below the prevailing market price of N50,000 per 50kg bag, to make the staple food more affordable.
The governor described the project as a major milestone in the state’s agricultural transformation agenda, noting that it would also create jobs and stimulate economic activities across the rice value chain.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, commended Governor Sule for the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of commitment to agricultural development driven by private sector collaboration.
Kyari, who was represented by Director Ibrahim Alkali, said the unveiling of NASACCO Gold rice showed that agricultural development requires deliberate planning and sustained investment rather than accidental outcomes.
He also praised the Nasarawa State Government for establishing the NASIDA One-Stop Investment Centre and the Multi-Door Courthouse, noting that the facilities would enhance the ease of doing business and attract investors to the state.
The minister further expressed admiration for the state’s achievements, including attracting over 88 million dollars in agricultural and industrial investments, expanding commercial farming activities, and cultivating more than 8,000 hectares of state-owned rice farms.
Kyari thanked the Governor of Bengo Province, Maria Nelumba, for honouring the invitation to the unveiling ceremony, saying her presence would further strengthen agricultural and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Angola.