ABUJA, NIGERIA — Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council approved on Sept. 10 the construction of 10 integrated rice mills and six cassava processing mills throughout the country.

The government is attempting to boost local production of the commodities and discourage importation. The two initiatives are estimated to cost N13 billion ($79.8 million). They will be largely private sector driving, with the government providing support.

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Akinwumi Adesina said the 10 rice mills would be located in Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger, Benue, Kogi, Bayelsa, Bauchi, Ogun and Anambra states. The mills will process rice paddy into finished rice.

The cassava mills will be located in Cross River, Abia, Delta, Ondo and Ogun states.