Nigeria’s drive toward sugar self-sufficiency has received a major boost as the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) intensifies efforts to expand local production through large-scale greenfield sugar projects.
Titansloaded reports that the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSDC, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, disclosed that the council is prioritising greenfield investments as a strategic pathway to closing Nigeria’s sugar supply gap and reducing dependence on imports.
According to Bakrin, the NSDC recently signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with four credible investors to develop integrated sugar projects that combine sugarcane cultivation with modern processing facilities across different regions of the country.
He explained that when fully operational, the four greenfield projects are expected to contribute about 400,000 metric tonnes of sugar annually, significantly strengthening Nigeria’s domestic sugar output and supporting the objectives of the National Sugar Master Plan.
One of the key projects highlighted is the GNAL Sugar initiative promoted by the Lee Group in Taraba State. Bakrin noted that joint site inspections have been conducted, with suitable local government areas already identified for cultivation and factory development.
Taraba State, he said, was selected due to its vast arable land, adequate water resources, favourable agro-climatic conditions, and strong commitment from the state government to support agribusiness investments.
The NSDC boss further revealed that the council is tackling challenges related to quality planting materials by establishing dedicated seedcane farms and adopting pre-sprouted bud set technology to improve yield, reduce costs, and shorten production timelines.
Bakrin also disclosed that the Nigeria Sugar Institute (NSI), operating under the NSDC, is being repositioned to serve as a national hub for research, training, and technical support within the sugar industry.
As part of inclusive growth strategies, he highlighted the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP), which integrates smallholder farmers into the sugar value chain through guaranteed offtake, access to inputs, and technical assistance.
The NSDC believes the greenfield project strategy will generate employment, stimulate rural development, attract private investment, and enhance infrastructure in host communities.
Bakrin reaffirmed that the council remains committed to supporting investors and farmers to ensure the success of the projects, stressing that increased local sugar production will strengthen food security and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth.
