Adetola Nola’s A.R.N. Foods expands as 8TPH rice mill takes shape

A.R.N. Foods Limited, Nigeria’s fastest-growing agricultural commodities trading firm, continues to demonstrate its commitment to food security and consumer satisfaction amidst the country’s economic challenges.

With Nigeria’s inflation rate rising to 34.80 percent in December 2024 and food prices nearing 40%, the company is stepping up its efforts to provide high-quality products and maintain high standards in food safety.

In 2023, ARN Farms rebranded to A.R.N. Foods, marking the company’s strategic shift towards food processing. This move highlights ARN Foods’ commitment to offering premium products, supporting the local economy, and promoting sustainability and innovation in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

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A major milestone in this expansion is the development of an ultra-modern rice mill in Epe, Lagos. Located on a 2000-square-meter plot of land, the facility is currently over 60% complete and is set to significantly boost the company’s production capacity. With a capacity of 3000 bags a day, the state-of-the-art mill will not only contribute to Nigeria’s food security but also align with the government’s policies aimed at ensuring sustainability in food production.

The state-of-the-art mill will economically create numerous job opportunities, contributing to Nigeria’s economic development. The modern facility stands out amongst many because it integrates advanced technology designed to minimize waste, enhance efficiency, and ensure the highest level of product purity while respecting the environment. This forward-thinking approach makes the mill a beacon of innovation in Nigeria’s agricultural industry.

According to ReportLinker, Nigeria’s rice consumption data shows a year-on-year percentage growth of 2.16% for 2024, 2.16% for 2025, 1.99% for 2026, 2.08% for 2027, and 1.91% for 2028, resulting in an average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.06% over the next five years.

The A.R.N Foods rice mill joins the growing number of mills in Nigeria, supporting the country’s goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency. This move is essential in reducing rice import bills while meeting the high local demand for the commodity. However, despite the country’s potential, local rice production still falls short of expectations, highlighting the importance of this new facility. By utilizing cutting-edge milling processes, the rice produced will be of superior quality, further establishing A.R.N. Foods as a trusted name in Nigerian agriculture.

Rilwan Adetola Nola, Chairman of A.R.N. Foods emphasized the company’s dedication to quality and sustainability. “We’ll consistently deliver on our commitment to quality, sustainability, and inclusivity in everything we do. We promise to source the finest ingredients ethically and responsibly, ensuring the highest standards of freshness and purity in every product we offer,” he said.

“Our dedication to sustainability means minimizing our environmentale footprint and actively contributing to the well-being of the planet we all share. Furthermore, we vow to embrace diversity and foster inclusivity in our workforce and communities, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make our world vibrant and unique.

“With this promise, A.R.N. Foods pledges to be a trusted steward of global food security, health, and harmony today and for generations to come,” he noted.

What sets A.R.N. Foods apart in the competitive market is its unique blend of business acumen and a deep commitment to sustainability. The company is laying the foundation to become a model for others by focusing not only on scalable agricultural practices but also on empowering local communities. Even before production begins, A.R.N. Foods is already working to educate and collaborate with local farmers and stakeholders, ensuring that their impact will extend far beyond the walls of the mill. Their focus on long-term relationships, ethical sourcing, and local development sets them apart as a forward-thinking leader in Nigeria’s agricultural industry.

ARN Foods’ product range includes rice, sorghum, soybean, and maize, and the company collaborates with over nine trusted suppliers to ensure the highest standards of quality and innovation, addressing the ever-growing needs of Nigerian consumers. This wide array of products ensures that A.R.N. Foods plays a critical role in feeding the nation’s diverse population, which continues to grow rapidly.

Rilwan Adetola Nola, a graduate in Chemical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, is an accomplished entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience. He has led successful ventures in various industries, including founding and leading Veritasi Homes and Properties Limited, a real estate company that is double rated by DataPro and GCR. He also founded Nola Travels and serves as the chairman of Asteric Asset Management. Nola’s philanthropic support to Nigerians is second to none. His exemplary leadership, business acumen, and achievements have also not gone unnoticed. Nola was named in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 business class in 2019. At the local level, the Harvard Business School graduate was listed among 10 Leading Entrepreneurs in Nigeria by BusinessDay Newspapers.

With its strong leadership, commitment to sustainability, and focus on innovation, A.R.N. Foods is positioning itself as a key player in ensuring food security and fostering economic growth in Nigeria. By remaining steadfast in its mission to provide nutritious food to the Nigerian population, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the agricultural landscape, ensuring that future generations benefit from the enduring impact of their sustainable practices.