By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
The Federal Government (FG) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production through the National Sugar Master Plan (NSMP). Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Owan Enoh, emphasized the importance of meeting domestic production targets, reducing reliance on sugar imports, and creating jobs.
According to a press release from Dr Adebayo Thomas Director Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) on Thursday, the NSMP aims to: Achieve self-sufficiency in sugar production by 2033, meeting Nigeria’s annual sugar consumption of 1.7 million metric tons; Create over 100,000 direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians, boosting economic growth and development; Conserve foreign exchange by reducing sugar imports, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s economic stability and; Increase local raw sugar production and reduce dependence on imports, promoting industrialization and economic diversification
The Ministry has called for improved oversight and accountability in Nigeria’s sugar sector, citing infractions related to free trade zone abuse and underperformance in domestic sugar production. Measures include: On-ground verification of project sites to enhance transparency; Quarterly performance reviews to ensure accountability and address past infractions and; Stricter enforcement, including penalties for non-compliance
The NSMP has garnered significant interest from investors, with a Chinese conglomerate, SINOMACH, pledging to invest $1 billion in Nigeria’s sugar industry. The Minister of State for Industry noted that $4.5 billion is needed to achieve the sugar master plan’s objectives.
Industry players, including Golden Sugar and BUA Foods, have pledged to expand operations and invest in additional projects, supporting the government’s efforts to boost sugar production and achieve self-sufficiency. The NSMP is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy, reducing reliance on foreign sugar imports and creating new opportunities for economic growth and development.
