Olam Agri strengthens commitment to enhance local food production in Nigeria
Olam Agri has transformed its operations from two manufacturing plants to nine facilities nationwide, producing flour, semolina, and pasta.
NIGERIA – Global agribusiness leader Olam Agri has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s food security through expanded local production initiatives, marking 15 years since its acquisition of Crown Flour Mills (CFM).
At a celebratory event in Lagos, the company unveiled its 10-year roadmap, which focuses on drought-resistant seed development and scaling domestic wheat cultivation.
Since acquiring CFM in 2010, Olam Agri has transformed its operations from two manufacturing plants to nine facilities nationwide, producing flour, semolina, and pasta.
These are supported by robust freight capabilities and global sourcing expertise, positioning the company as a leading miller in Africa.
The company has also installed Nigeria’s first state-of-the-art premix facility, enabling the fortification of micronutrients and improved nutritional outcomes.
Through backwards integration, Olam Agri has empowered over 500 farmers, partnering with institutions such as the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), and the Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI) to promote local wheat production.
Speaking at the event, Anil Nair, Country Head for Olam Agri Nigeria, highlighted the company’s extensive distribution network and its role in driving growth in staples and packaged foods across the country.
“At Olam Agri, we focus on unlocking value for customers, enabling farming communities to prosper sustainably and strive for a food-secure future,” emphasised Mr. Nair.
“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.
The anniversary event served as a platform to recognise high-performing staff, loyal distributors, and strategic partners.
Nitin Mehta, Managing Director and Business Head of Olam Agri’s wheat milling and pasta division, noted, “We’re building more than a milling operation; we’re creating a platform for inclusive development that uplifts employees, empowers partners, and delivers value to families across Nigeria”.
Both distributor Femi Areo and employee Femi Koya credited Olam Agri with enhancing their livelihoods; Areo through reliable products and income growth, and Koya through a purposeful career supporting national food security.
Olam Agri’s roadmap includes scaling up regenerative agriculture, expanding farmer training, and deploying climate-resilient seed varieties.
These efforts align with Nigeria’s New Hope Agenda and reflect the company’s belief that with the right investment and vision, sustainable food systems are achievable.
With its sights set on the next decade, Olam Agri remains a driving force in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
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