Kano Govt Shuts Rice Mill over Allegation of Pollution Aggravating COVID-19 Patients

BY VICTOR BUORO, ABUJA – The Management of TIAMIN RICE Limited, Kano has expressed shock at the decision of the Kano State Government through its Ministry of Environment to shut down its production company over allegation of air pollution.

A statement by the Deputy Managing Director of the company, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim, who stated this in a press statement made available to Forefront News, said the state government claimed that it took the decision following complaints of air pollution which aggravate Coronavirus patients.
Ibrahim however said that there are nearly 30 rice mills operating in Kano State, stressing that Tiamin Rice Limited is the only company affected by the order, in spite of the fact that its distance to the isolation center at Sani Abacha Stadium is over 20kms away.

Ibrahim also said that the effect of the closure of the rice company on the nation’s economy particularly Kano, cannot be over emphasized, adding that it would completely jeopardised the economy of the ancient city as well as exposed the citizens to hunger.
According to Ibrahim; “Tiamin Rice is a leading rice mill in Kano, which produces 320 metric tonnes of rice daily, and has 223 workers on its payroll and additional over 100 casual staff.
“The decision of the state government to shut down the company was conveyed to us in a “Notice for Closing Order” dated April 18, 2020, citing unfounded allegation of air pollution that aggravates Coronavirus patients.
“In his nationwide address, President Muhammadu Buhari has exempted all food prduction and processing companies in order to minimize the impact of the pandemic on the nation and ensure food security.”
The Deputy Managing Director said that the management and Staff of company are keenly following the development of the pandemic with feelings of concern even as it urged staff and customers to remain calm and follow the recommended guidelines of NCDC.
The company however assured its loyal customers and distributors not to panic over the temporary setback as its 600-tonne capacity plant in Bauchi State will soon be activated
Ibrahim concluded by saying; “We will surely overcome this present challenge and others by the Grace of Allah. Let us continue to have faith in HIM and our Health Professionals as they are doing their best in this trying moment.”