The Government Secretary of the Nationwide Sugar Improvement Council (NSDC), Kamar Bakrin, mentioned Nigeria is on its technique to self-sufficiency in home sugar manufacturing.
Bakrin, in an interview with the current DAILY POST, mentioned stakeholder response to its not too long ago launched Sugarcane Outgrower Improvement Programme (SODP) is sensible for the expansion of the nation’s sugar trade.
In keeping with him, the sturdy curiosity in this system signalled rising confidence in efforts to spice up native sugar manufacturing.
“The response has been overwhelmingly constructive—and, extra importantly, extremely sensible. What we’re seeing is a transparent willingness by contributors to interact meaningfully,” Bakrin mentioned.
He defined that the SODP integrates farmers into Nigeria’s sugar worth chain via assured offtake preparations, entry to high quality seedcane, inputs, and technical help.
“Farmers shouldn’t be left to provide sugarcane in isolation, with out market certainty or help,” he added.
Bakrin mentioned this system has moved past coverage design into full implementation, notably in communities near current sugar estates.
Addressing issues about planting supplies, Bakrin mentioned NSDC has established devoted seedcane farms and is deploying trendy bud chip expertise via the Nigeria Sugar Institute (NSI).
“This expertise can reduce between 12 and 18 months out of the challenge growth cycle,” he mentioned.
Bakrin added that reforms on the Nigeria Sugar Institute have repositioned it as a nationwide heart of excellence, supporting analysis, coaching, and technical capability to drive Nigeria towards long-term sugar self-sufficiency.
