(Ecofin Agency) - The Nigerian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbeh (photo), on Wednesday, revealed that the Federal Government is targeting the production of 7 million tonnes of rice by 2018.

According to him, the target, which is expected to be achieved Q2 of 2018 is aimed at meeting demands.

“I think we have attained the level of being one of the largest producers of rice, even though many people are still in doubt about that. The only thing we need to add is the milling capacity, which we are increasing,” he said.

Ogbeh added that the 110 milling machines which the Government intends to distribute and sell to farmers will assist them in boosting production, hence reducing the price of the produce and boost the food security in the country.

“Our milling capacity is still not up to speed but we want to improve. Some of the mills, which will mainly go to cooperatives, will do 10 tonnes a day, some 20 tonnes, some 50 tonnes and some 100 tonnes. The terms of sale and distribution of the mills to communities and farmers will be very generous,’’ he added.

Nigeria is one of the world’s largest importers of rice. The country’s demand for rice was at seven million tonnes in November 2016 while the local production was at about 3.5 million tonnes.

Anita Fatunji