Sugar Devt Council Signs Deals To Increase Output By 400,000 Tonnes

The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has signed agreements with four operators to develop new sugar production facilities that will collectively add 400,000 metric tonnes to Nigeria's annual sugar output. This move marks a significant step in the government's efforts to reduce the country's heavy reliance on sugar imports.

The agreements were finalized at the NSDC headquarters in Abuja and involve Brent Sugar in Oyo State, Niger Foods in Niger State, Legacy Sugar in Adamawa State, and UMZA in Bauchi State. The wide regional spread of these projects is designed to leverage Nigeria's diverse agricultural zones and ensure economic benefits are distributed across multiple states.

The NSDC will provide customized project support to cover critical service costs and help the ventures become commercially viable. This initiative aligns with Nigeria's focus on developing the sugar sector and reducing regional inequality.

The projects are expected to generate significant employment in rural areas, improve local infrastructure, and stimulate economic activity. The NSDC's Executive Secretary, Kamar Bakrin,.