President Bola Tinubu praised GB Foods for inaugurating the largest tomato processing factory in Africa in Nigeria, stating that this investment demonstrates the confidence of foreign investors in Nigeria. Tinubu made these remarks during the inauguration of GB Foods’ state-of-art integrated tomato processing plant and expanded farm facilities in Gafara, located in the Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The President, represented by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, mentioned, “Let me say that this is the second time i am coming to Kebbi State in a little over a month. First, i visited a rice mill, the largest in West Africa, and today i”m visiting the largest tomato factory in Africa, all in Kebbi State.”
In his address, Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, thanked the company for involving 3,335 local out-growers in tomato production and assured full support from the state government to ensure the plant operates as its maximum capacity.
Idris underscored the factory’s importance as the foremost tomato processing facility, pledging full support and protection for its success.
Vincent Egbe, CEO of GB Foods Nigeria, revealed that their farm and factory in Kebbi accounted for 75% of Nigeria’s tomato concentrate output during the 2022-2023 season. Despite this significant contributed, Egbe noted that demand still output supply, highlighting the need for sectoral expansion and advancement.
He further disclosed that in December 2023, the company bolstered its standing by expanding its Lagos tomato sachet factory to an unprecedented 100,000 metric tons, solidifying its status as the global leader in its category.