Nigeria Plans Greenfield Sugar Projects to Boost Local Production

The Nigerian government, through the Nation Sugar Development Council (NSDC) led by Executive Secretary Kamar Bakrin, is implementing plans to enhance sugar production in the country. The NSDC is actively pursuing greenfield projects to increase local sugar output and advance self-sufficiency in sugar production.

These projects are a crucial part of the government's strategy to bridge the gap in domestic sugar production. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed for four greenfield sugar projects with companies like Brent Sugar, Niger Food, Legaci Sugar, and Umza committing to sizeable investments and technical capabilities to boost production.

The projects aim to add 400,000 metric tons of sugar annually to Nigeria's domestic output. The greenfield projects are strategically spread across different regions to leverage Nigeria's diverse agro-climatic advantages, ensuring widespread economic benefits, job creation, infrastructure development, and support for local enterprises.

Notably, progress is being made in Taraba State, with the NSDC engaging with the state government to identify suitable locations for large-scale sugar cane cultivation and processing. The NSDC is also establishing a seed cane farm to support the greenfield projects and reduce reliance on imported plant materials.