The management of Fortune Rice Milling Company has issued a strong rebuttal following reports surrounding the sealing of its facility by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) over alleged environmental violations.
In a statement released by Managing Director Alhaji Shehu Dalhatu on behalf of the chairman of the company, said the rice milling firm rejected what it described as attempts to portray the company as irresponsible or deliberately negligent toward environmental standards and public safety.
While acknowledging the statutory responsibility of NESREA as a regulatory authority, the company maintained that it has consistently operated within Nigerian laws and contributed significantly to economic development, food production, and employment generation in Kano State and beyond.
“It is unfair and misleading to create public impressions capable of undermining the integrity and reputation of a company that has consistently contributed positively to society,” the statement read.
The management admitted that concerns had been raised regarding dust emissions around the facility but stressed that practical and technical measures to improve environmental control systems were already underway before the recent enforcement action by NESREA.
According to the company, it has never ignored regulatory engagement nor refused cooperation with environmental authorities.
“We have consistently maintained communication with regulators and demonstrated readiness to comply with every lawful requirement,” the management stated.
The company explained that some of the technical upgrades and installations required involve complex procurement processes, specialised expertise, and implementation timelines that cannot be completed immediately.
It further rejected allegations suggesting that the company intentionally endangered the health and safety of residents living around the facility.
“The wellbeing of surrounding communities remains a priority to our organisation and we have continuously taken steps to minimise operational impact while maintaining industrial productivity,” the statement added.
The management also called on sections of the media and the public to avoid sensational reporting and dissemination of incomplete information capable of creating panic or damaging investor confidence.
According to the company, regulatory matters involving environmental compliance should be approached with fairness, professionalism, and balanced reporting.
The firm reaffirmed its commitment to lawful operations, environmental responsibility, and constructive engagement with regulators and stakeholders.
Management disclosed that corrective measures are currently being intensified and expressed confidence that all outstanding concerns would be addressed in accordance with applicable environmental standards.
“We assure our partners, customers, employees, and host communities that the company remains stable, responsible, and committed to sustaining its contribution to economic growth and food security,” the statement concluded.
The development comes amid increasing environmental scrutiny of industrial activities across Kano State as regulatory agencies intensify enforcement of environmental standards aimed at protecting public health and reducing pollution risks in host communities.