By Elizabeth Uwandu

THE increasing wave of crime and insecurity in Nigeria has continued to be linked to the current high unemployment rate among Nigerian youths. But while both the Federal Government and the various state governments try to come to terms with this reality and proffer solution, it has emerged that the problem cannot be solved without  private sector participation and initiatives.

It was based on this consideration that the Director, Rite Foods Limited, makers of Bigi beverages and sausages, Mr Saleem Adegunwa, said the company was established. Speaking during a facility tour of the company’s new site on the Sagamu Benin expressway ,Ososa, Ogun State, Adegunwa said all things considered the company was motivated by the desire to empower people in its host communities, especially the youths.

He said since production started on the new site, the company has put in place security measures not only in the factory but also in the community to safeguard their means of livelihood.

The new factory, he informed, is built on 23.780 hectares of land area (58.763 acres) comprising three main buildings: the  Bakery Factory, Beverage Factory and the Warehouse, including other buildings such as Security/Fire Station, Staff Welfare, Service Bakery and Gate House. In addition, Rite foods generate its power internally.

His words: “Even with the amount and quality of equipment on ground, we have had no security challenge as adequate precautions have been taken. Since we came into the town,   there has been an influx of people which necessitates a 24-hour surveillance.

Our coming here has triggered off lots of activities with many people, especially the youths being gainfully employed. This is because our coming here has given this town a new face as people are now putting structures in place which were not there before.”

Such that development in this town is physical and this makes workers and other people security conscious.”  He added that the company’s employees which have  grown from 100  at its inception in 2007 to close to 1000 were provided with accommodation and feeding allowances. “Through employment, people are engaged and so are able to take care of themselves and their families.”