Instant pap production company unveiled in Kano

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Halilco Foods, a leading grain processing and food manufacturing company, has officially commissioned its new, state-of-the-art Instant Koko (pap) Production Line at its manufacturing facility in Sharada Phase 1, Kano.

The commissioning ceremony, brought together key industry stakeholders, government officials, development partners, and members of the local community to witness this significant milestone in Nigeria’s food production sector.

Speaking at the event, Kema Kolam E,  Chief Operating Officer of Propcom+, commended Halilco Foods as a “development champion” for its work in agriculture, biofortification, and climate-resilient practices.

During the event, attendees were given an exclusive tour of the new production line, gaining insights into the innovative technology and stringent quality control processes that Halilco Foods has adopted to enhance product quality and safety.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Abbass Fadallah, Managing Director of Halilco Foods, highlighted the scale and impact of the expansion:

“This new production line marks a massive 500% increase in our production capacity. Our focus is on producing biofortified, nutrient-rich food products such as Instant Koko, Garin Gasar Koko, and other millet-based paps.

“Our collaboration with Propcom+ has been instrumental in making this possible, especially in promoting the use of iron-rich biofortified millet, which helps combat anemia and malnutrition.

“A key aspect of the project has been its emphasis on empowering women farmers. Halilco Foods, in collaboration with Propcom+, provided 500 women farmers across Kano and Jigawa States with biofortified millet seeds.

“These farmers received comprehensive training in good agronomic practices and were supported through a guaranteed market arrangement, ensuring they could sell their harvests profitably.

“I insisted that every single one of the 500 farmers we worked with should be women.

 “This is about more than just production — it’s about economic empowerment and ensuring women have a stronger role in the agricultural value chain”, Fadallah stated.

The Kano State Ministry of Agriculture expressed strong support for the investment, with Yahuza Shehu Aliyu, Director of Veterinary Services, representing the Honourable Commissioner at the event.

Aliyu commended Halilco Foods and Propcom+ for their commitment to enhancing food security and empowering women farmers.

“This investment is a welcome development for Kano State. The fortified millet being processed here – enriched with essential nutrients like vitamin A, iron, and zinc – will significantly improve the nutritional health of our women and children,” Aliyu stated.

He further assured that the Kano State Government remains committed to supporting companies investing in agriculture and food processing, particularly those contributing to improved nutrition and rural development.