The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has urged members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and prospective investors to take advantage of the significant opportunities within Nigeria’s sugar sector.
During a courtesy visit by AFAN members to his office, NSDC Executive Secretary, Zacch Adedeji Bakrin, encouraged stakeholders to support the national initiative aimed at reducing the country’s heavy reliance on imported raw sugar and its derivatives.
Bakrin emphasized that producing sugar locally is not only a strategic move for economic growth but also a highly profitable venture, backed by a guaranteed market, high returns, and strong government support.
“This is the right time to invest. The Nigerian sugar market is currently valued at over $2 billion, that of Africa is $7billion and the continental deficit will rise to 13 MT in 2030 due to rising demand and regional supply gaps. The market for sugar by-products is worth $10 billion,” he noted, reported Business Today.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s sugar consumption patterns, foreign exchange challenges, and global supply chain disruptions have made local production more viable and rewarding than ever before.
He further stated that following extensive assessments, the NSDC now possesses a land bank of 150,000 hectares deemed suitable for sugarcane cultivation. These lands, located in secure regions with favorable climates, access to water, and community backing, are open to new investors.
“Producing sugar in Nigeria has become significantly more valuable today. That wasn’t always the case, but it is now. There are four main factors creating strong investment prospects in sugarcane cultivation and processing: (1) Attractive Markets, (2) Operational Viability, (3) Economic Advantage, and (4) Sustainable, Long-Term Business Potential,” he said.
To address the nation’s production gap, Bakrin added that the Council plans to bring at least 50,000 hectares under sugarcane cultivation through a commercial outgrower scheme. The initiative will engage qualified commercial farmers with farm sizes between 50 and 200 hectares, particularly near sugar estates in Numan, Bacita, Sunti, and Lafiagi.
