NSDC Urges Farmers, Investors to Seize Nigeria’s $2bn Sugar Market

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), has called on members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and private investors to seize the vast opportunities in Nigeria’s sugar sector, valued at over $2 billion.

Executive Secretary, NSDC, Kamar Bakrin, who made the call during a courtesy visit by AFAN officials in Abuja, emphasises that local sugar production has become a strategic economic priority, driven by attractive market prospects, government incentives, and favourable economic conditions.

“With Africa’s sugar market estimated at \$7 billion and a projected supply deficit of 13 million tonnes by 2030, this is the right time to invest,” Bakrin said.

According to a statement on Sunday by the Council, the market for sugar by-products, including ethanol and bioplastics, is worth an additional $10 billion.

Highlighting the NSDC’s preparedness, Bakrin reveals that the Council has secured a land bank of 150,000 hectares suitable for sugarcane cultivation.

He announces plans to bring 50,000 hectares under cultivation through a Commercial Outgrower Scheme, targeting capable farmers with plots between 50 to 200 hectares, especially near key sugar estates in Numan, Bacita, Sunti, and Lafiagi.

To encourage investment, the NSDC has roll out incentives under its National Sugar Master Plan Phase II (NSMP II), including access to the Nigeria Sugar Industry Development Fund (NSIDF), tax holidays, infrastructure tax credits, and input support.

Investors will also benefit from mechanisation services, technical expertise, and guaranteed offtake agreements with sugar processors.

Bakrin notes that prevailing macroeconomic realities, such as foreign exchange pressures and global supply chain disruptions, have made local sugar production more viable than ever.

He also points to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a strategic advantage for Nigerian producers seeking to access regional markets.

“This is not just an investment opportunity; it’s a national development imperative. We are ready to support credible investors with the resources and partnerships they need to succeed,” Bakrin stated.

In his remarks, AFAN President, Dr. Faruk Rabiu-Mudi, pledges the association’s commitment to mobilising its members for participation in the sugar sector, particularly the commercial outgrower programme.

He acknowledges that addressing Nigeria’s sugar production shortfall requires collective effort from both public and private sector stakeholders.

 

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