Sequel to reports that went viral few daus ago that Dangote group was allegedly partnering with the Federal Government to import and flood the market with poisonous Genetic Modified Organisms, GMOs’ rice, the company has gone ahead to refute the report.
The group via a statement Tuesday, the company said ”is not involved in the production or sales of GMOs and its research in Nigeria or anywhere.”
Dangote said, ”what people should know, however, is the ground breaking progress Dangote Rice has made since 2014 when it stopped importation of rice and began local cultivation”
It stated further that in ”2014: Dangote signed $1billion agreement with FG or integrated rice production in Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa and Kwara.
”2016, it Started a multi-billion naira Rice Outgrower Scheme over 8,000 hectares in Hadejia, Jigawa State
”2016 it created over 10,000 jobs (Direct and indirect) to farmers who are an integral part of the Rice Outgrower Scheme.
” FARO 44 rice seeds distributed to farmers during the Outgrower Scheme was sourced from Africa Rice and certified by the National Agricultural Seeds Council.
The group said, “the intent of this broadcasts is to bring into disrepute the hard earned reputation of Dangote and actualization of its vision of making Nigeria self-sufficient in rice production.
”Moreover, with the ever watchful eagle eyes of organizations such as NAFDAC, SON, CPC with mandate to ensure food safety, how can a big organisation like Dangote import and flood the market with poisonous rice?,” the statement signed by its Social Media Manager, Adedamola Adeniyi.
