Press Release
FMN and Sokoto State working together to feed the Nation, Everyday.

Lagos, Nigeria; November 09, 2019.

In a move that further reiterates its commitment to the development of agriculture and industry in Nigeria, FMN, one of the leading foods and agro-allied groups in Nigeria and owners of the iconic Golden Penny brand; today announced its partnership with the Sokoto State government for a N2 billion Graduate Farmer Scheme.

As part of the partnership, Sokoto State will establish a N2 billion rolling loan targeted at 1000 graduates from the state who will participate in a pilot farming and products marketing scheme. FMN will support the project by providing specialized agronomy and input support in the areas of seed development and commodity aggregation.

Speaking during a courtesy call to FMN head office in Apapa, His Excellency, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, the Governor of Sokoto State revealed that the revolving loan scheme would be expected to cultivate value-chain crops of soybean, wheat, sesame and other export commodities such as Gum Arabic, hibiscus and garlic on a 500 hectares pieces of land in various parts of the state.

“Once the graduates are brought on board, we envisage that the traditional farmers will also key into the scheme and expand their scope and relevance in the food production process in the state.” He said.

The Chairman of FMN, John Coumantaros, disclosed that FMN was excited at the prospects of the partnership, which he believes will strengthen the existing relationship with Sokoto State. Amongst other things, FMN will bring its expertise to bear in the areas of wheat seed multiplication, offtake and extension services, fertilizer blending and distribution and human capacity development.

Speaking at the meeting, John Coumantaros said: “We are pleased to partner with Sokoto state on such a laudable project, and we happy to bring our wealth of knowledge and expertise from executing similar projects in other agriculture- focused states in the country.”

“Our strong belief that local agricultural production is the catalyst for Nigeria’s industrial transformation is unwavering. I am delighted that we can work together with Sokoto State to build a vibrant agriculture sector and continue to promote its seamless integration with industry. In line with our purpose of feeding the nation,

everyday, we are positive that we will create value for farmers and stimulate diversification in the industrial sector of Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.” He added.

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About Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc

Incorporated in September 1960 and quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange since 1978, Flour Mills of Nigeria (FMN) Plc, owners of the iconic Golden Penny Food brand is one of Nigeria’s leading food and agro-allied companies. With a broad basket of food products and robust pan-Nigerian production, distribution, and supply chain network, FMN is a fully integrated and diversified food and agro-allied group.

FMN group strives in its purpose to “Feed the Nation, Everyday” through its five core food value chains: Grains, Sweeteners, Oils and Fats, Proteins, and Starches. FMN creates value along the entire food chain with its “farm-to-table” model by providing inputs and know-how to farmers, aggregating and sourcing crops and raw materials to supply its world-class processing facilities across Nigeria, and distributing its innovative food brands to its customers.

More information can be found at www.fmnplc.com