The Northern Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has raised concerns over the shutdown of rice mills in Kano, citing a scarcity of paddy as the cause.

Dalhatu Abubakar, Chairman of the chamber, emphasized that the scarcity could lead to a rise in the price of finished rice.

Abubakar revealed that many millers, both integrated and small-scale, are struggling to maintain production due to the lack of paddy.

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Some millers have even reduced their production hours and laid off workers.

Abubakar urged federal and state governments to intervene by promoting mechanization and providing necessary inputs for year-round production.

He highlighted the challenges millers are facing, including high costs of paddy, fuel, taxes, and electricity bills, which could lead to a significant increase in the cost of finished rice for consumers.