NAFDAC Closes Four Local Rice Milling Companies in Nasarawa

On Tuesday, June 3, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) shut down four local rice milling businesses located in the Autabalefi area, Masaka main market, and the motor park in Nasarawa State.

The agency also confiscated several empty branded rice bags associated with well-known rice brands. Additional items taken included sealing machines, sewing thread, packing bowls, and two 50 kg bags of rice from these local mills.

Furthermore, NAFDAC suspended operations at the Nigeria Brewery's Masaka Depot due to inadequate storage conditions for beverages. The agency noted that a significant amount of drinks was improperly stored outside the brewery, exposed to sunlight, making them unsafe for consumption.

Mrs. Benedicta Obaseki, the Deputy Director of NAFDAC’s Greater FCT Office in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, explained that the raid was prompted by concerns raised by the public.

"This action was essential to prevent the distribution of substandard rice in the market, particularly as Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir," she stated.

Obaseki emphasized NAFDAC’s dedication to ensuring the safety and quality of food products, especially during the festive period. "We recognize that some may take advantage of this time to produce and sell counterfeit goods for profit. Thus, we felt it was crucial to act proactively."

Representing NAFDAC's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Obaseki confirmed that decisive measures were taken against manufacturers of non-compliant rice products. "These items have been halted and will be properly destroyed. As we near the Sallah festivities, we want to guarantee that Nigerians have access to safe and quality food."

She added, "Fake rice poses significant health risks, and we will not tolerate such practices." NAFDAC plans to continue monitoring markets to eliminate substandard rice and other products while imposing penalties on those that fail to meet regulations.

Obaseki urged the public to remain vigilant and purchase rice only from reputable sources, highlighting recent findings of unethical practices. She encouraged consumers to always check for NAFDAC registration numbers on products, reiterating that ensuring public safety is the agency's top priority.

Meanwhile, some business owners affected by the closures denied any misconduct. Miss Purity Obadiah, the manager of one of the companies, stated that her firm mills various grains and packages rice for customers.

When questioned about the use of branded bags for repackaging, she insisted that they do not accept such items. "Last December, customers brought new branded bags for packaging, but we refused. Our owner has instructed us not to accept those."

Similarly, Mrs. Maris Kano, another business owner impacted by the shutdown, denied any wrongdoing, asserting, "The bags I used for repackaging my rice were purchased from the market and did not belong to any other companies."