Kebbi Rice Mill Collapse: Rescue Efforts Continue As Death Toll Rises

A structural collapse at a major rice milling facility in Birnin Kebbi has plunged the community into mourning, with emergency crews racing against time to rescue trapped workers and determine the full extent of the tragedy.

The partial collapse of a section of the Niagri Rice Production Facility, a private rice mill located in the Bulasa area of the state capital, occurred in the early hours of Tuesday. Initial reports confirmed that two workers have died and several others remain trapped or injured under debris from the wrecked machinery and structure.

Rescue Operations Intensify

Emergency responders from the Kebbi State Fire Service, Police Command, and other agencies have been on site since the accident, using heavy equipment to cut through twisted metal and collapsed machinery in an attempt to reach survivors.

The Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, personally visited the mill to assess the rescue operation and coordinate ongoing security and emergency efforts. During the visit, officials confirmed that two bodies had been evacuated, while four other workers remained trapped, intensifying the urgency of the search and rescue mission.

One injured worker has been treated and discharged, according to police briefings, but the fate of those still trapped is yet to be fully determined. Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to locate and safely extract any survivors.

Government Response and Condolences

The incident prompted swift action from the Kebbi State Government. Deputy Governor Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida led a government delegation to the scene to oversee operations and offer support to victims’ families. The state government extended deep condolences to the management and staff of NIA-AGRI, the owners of the mill, and assured the public that every possible effort is being made to bring the rescue mission to a successful conclusion.

Officials have also promised a full investigation into the cause of the structural failure once the urgent rescue phase is complete. The collapse has raised concerns about workplace safety standards and industrial oversight within the state’s booming agricultural processing sector.

Community Impact

The rice mill in question is part of Kebbi’s broader agricultural landscape, a state long known as one of Nigeria’s major rice producers, where large mills like WACOT and Labana operate alongside smaller facilities. These mills are central to local employment and food processing, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.

The tragedy comes at a time when the rice industry nationwide faces pressure from economic challenges, including rising costs, imported competition, and operational difficulties. While this incident is specific to structural collapse and emergency response, it underscores the broader importance of ensuring safe and resilient infrastructure in a sector critical to regional and national food security.