Flour Mills of Nigeria (FMN), a prominent player in the Nigerian food and agro-allied industry, has consistently demonstrated its dedication to bolstering food security within the nation. For over six decades, FMN has pursued a strategic approach centered on reducing reliance on imported raw materials and promoting local content development, aptly encapsulated in their “Feeding the Nation Every Day” agenda. This commitment has not only contributed to the nation’s food security but also significantly impacted the livelihoods of millions of Nigerian families through direct and indirect employment opportunities. FMN views itself not merely as a business entity but as a crucial partner in Nigeria’s growth and development, holding in trust the nation’s heritage and ensuring sustainability in its operations for the country, the environment, and its people.
FMN’s journey in agriculture commenced in 1978 with the acquisition of a substantial 10,000-hectare farm in Kaboji, Niger State. This strategic move aimed to enhance the sugar supply chain and minimize dependence on imported sugar. Since then, the company has diligently broadened its agricultural portfolio, investing in the cultivation of a diverse range of crops, including soya beans, palm fruits, cassava, wheat, maize, sugarcane, and sorghum. Beyond cultivation, FMN has also actively engaged in the aggregation and distribution of locally sourced grains, strengthening the entire agricultural value chain within Nigeria. This diversification reflects FMN’s commitment to a holistic approach to food security, encompassing both production and efficient distribution networks.
A pivotal component of FMN’s agricultural strategy lies in its impactful outgrower programme and agronomy support systems. These initiatives have empowered over 400,000 farmers across Nigeria, providing them with essential inputs, training on modern agricultural practices, and access to reliable markets for their produce. This empowerment has not only enhanced the productivity and incomes of these farmers but has also created a sustainable supply chain for FMN’s food brands, notably Golden Penny Foods. By integrating smallholder farmers into their operations, FMN fosters a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens the agricultural sector as a whole.
Through Golden Agri Inputs Limited, a subsidiary of FMN Agro Ltd., FMN has further amplified its commitment to supporting Nigerian farmers. This subsidiary has developed comprehensive farming schemes for over 50,000 farmers, encompassing the provision of high-yielding hybrid crop varieties, advanced agronomy practices guidance, storage solutions, and guaranteed market access. This integrated approach addresses key challenges faced by farmers, from access to quality inputs to ensuring profitable market linkages. The scheme covers a wide array of crops, including maize, sorghum, cassava, wheat, soya bean, and palm kernel, further diversifying agricultural production and contributing to food security objectives.
FMN’s unwavering dedication to local content development is evident in its multi-faceted agricultural investments and support programs. These efforts aim to achieve food self-sufficiency not only in Nigeria but also across the African continent. By prioritizing local sourcing and empowering local farmers, FMN strengthens the nation’s agricultural capacity, reduces dependence on imports, and contributes to the overall economic development of Nigeria.
In conclusion, Flour Mills of Nigeria has solidified its position as a key driver of food security and local content development in Nigeria. Their “Feeding the Nation Every Day” agenda represents a long-term commitment to investing in the agricultural sector, supporting local farmers, and strengthening the nation’s food supply chain. From cultivating a diverse range of crops to empowering hundreds of thousands of farmers through outgrower programs and comprehensive farming schemes, FMN is playing a crucial role in ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for Nigerian agriculture. This commitment extends beyond mere profit-seeking, embracing a broader vision of national development and food security, not only within Nigeria but also with an eye towards contributing to food security across the African continent.
