Food processors under the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and International Fund for Agricultural Development-assisted Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in Niger State have been cautioned against handling faulty equipment without professional expertise.
Facilitators, Engr. Daniel Shaba and Engr. Jerry Ikuenisafun, gave the warning during a six-day training on the Constitution Strengthening and Support of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Committees held in Bida and Edati LGAs.
They advised that only qualified experts should handle technical faults, urging operators to report issues early to avoid further damage and reduce maintenance costs.
Shaba stressed that preventive maintenance through routine inspection, regular cleaning, and timely replacement of worn-out parts remains the most effective way to extend the lifespan of equipment.
According to him, “Neglect often leads to costly corrective maintenance.”
On his part m, Ikuenisafun warned processors to properly clean their products especially paddy rice before milling, explaining that stones, metals, and wood particles can damage machines and reduce output quality.
He said the training was designed to build capacity, improve operational standards, and address recurring maintenance challenges faced by processors.
Kolo Joy Teni, Niger State VCDP Assistant Agricultural Processing and Quality Enhancement Officer, said the training also strengthened leaders of existing O&M Committees and constituted a new committee for Lavun LGA, which recently joined the programme.
Participants were trained on maintaining processing centres, machines, roads, culverts, and boreholes executed by the agency for them to ensure sustainability and community ownership in their various LGs.
Rice and Cassava processors, including Hauwawu Indagi and Mrs Patience Jeremiah, commended the initiative, noting that improved practices have enhanced product quality and opened up better market opportunities for them in their communities.
IFAD/VCDP warn Niger food processors against handling faulty equipment without experts
