In a significant boost to Bayelsa State’s agricultural ambitions, the Republic of South Korea has delivered cutting-edge rice processing technology, marking a new chapter in the state’s quest to become a leading hub for rice production in Nigeria.
The installation of four state-of-the-art rice mills, each capable of processing 10 metric tonnes of rice paddies daily, was finalized at the School-to-Land Farm in Yenagoa. The initiative is part of a bilateral partnership aimed at advancing agricultural development in the state.
Speaking on the development, Governor Douye Diri commended the South Korean government for its support. “We are deeply grateful for the donation of these rice mills, farming tractors, and technical expertise. This aligns perfectly with our vision to transform Bayelsa into a major player in rice production,” the governor stated during a meeting with the South Korean delegation at his country home in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.
The leader of the South Korean technical team, Mr. Byung Chul Son, highlighted the advanced capabilities of the mills while urging Bayelsa to acquire complementary equipment, such as dryers and colour selectors, to maximize the mills’ efficiency. “These machines will refine rice production in the state, but additional machinery is needed to fully support the milling process,” Son noted during a demonstration exercise.
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, revealed that the Korean government not only provided the rice mills but also trained state agricultural staff in essential practices like soil preparation, land irrigation, and rice milling techniques.
With these advancements, Bayelsa State is positioning itself as a promising hub for large-scale rice production in the South-South region, while also fostering closer ties with international partners to drive agricultural sustainability.
