The Country Head for Olam Agri in Nigeria, Mr Anil Nair, has expressed the commitment of the company in growing its local food production through the implementation of the organisation’s 10-year plan.
Olam Agri developed a 10-year roadmap for drought-resistant seed development to scale local wheat production to ensure food security in the country.
Speaking last Thursday at an event to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the acquisition of Crown Flour Mills, Mr Nair said, “At Olam Agri, we focus on unlocking value for customers, enabling farming communities to prosper sustainably and strive for a food-secure future.
“With an extensive distribution network for staples and packaged foods across Nigeria, we continue to drive growth in local food production. Our strong performance over the last 15 years is a testament to our commitment to manufacturing excellence and national food security.”
In 2010, Olam Agri, a global leader in food, feed, and fibre, took over the control of Crown Flour Mills, established in 1981.
From two manufacturing plants 15 years ago, Olam Agri’s wheat milling and pasta business now operates nine plants across the country, producing flour, semolina and pasta, backed by strong freight capabilities and global sourcing expertise.
The company has established itself as a leader in supporting the development of the food and agricultural sector. It has installed the first state-of-the-art premix facility in Nigeria, established extensive backwards integration that has empowered approximately 500 farmers, and partnered with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), the Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI) and top global crop researchers to promotelocal wheat production.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director and Business Head of Olam Agri’s wheat milling and pasta business, Nitin Mehta, said, “Our strong profile of achievements in less than two decades of acquisition underlines our dedication to supporting the government’s New Hope Agenda for food security.
“The business growth under Olam Agri proves what’s possible with the right vision and investment. We’re building more than a milling operation; we’re building a platform for inclusive development that uplifts employees, empowers partners, and delivers value to families across Nigeria. We remain committed to advancing innovation, nutrition, and access to affordable food.”
A member of staff of Crown Flour Mills, Mr Femi Koya, said, “This business gave me an invaluable career start. They provide me with a platform to contribute to raising the national food security level, contributing meaningfully to the economy and feeding my family while growing my career at the same time.”
Also, a retail channel member and distribution merchant, Femi Areo, noted that, “I have had the utmost joy in partnering with Olam Agri to distribute its products for these 15 years. It provides me with the right support by producing the best quality products, providing on-time delivery and retail channel value-added services that ensure I can deliver robust sales in our local marketplace. I am grateful for the business. The partnership has improved my income and livelihood.”