Sugar Council Unveils Major Reforms for Local Production
The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) is implementing aggressive reforms to boost Nigeria’s local sugar production. Executive Secretary Mr. Kamar Bakrin announced these bold steps, which include enhanced monitoring and stronger regulatory oversight, aiming to dismantle long-standing barriers in the sector.
Bakrin revealed these measures during a high-level meeting with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and major sugar producers. The session focused on revitalizing Nigeria’s sugar sector under the National Sugar Master Plan, intensifying oversight of Backward Integration Programme (BIP) projects with direct engagement and measurable targets.
To address identified challenges like smuggling and port delays, the NSDC is collaborating with the National Assembly to amend its Act, closing regulatory gaps. They are also working with Nigeria Customs Service and security agencies to curb illegal imports and have resolved land access disputes in key states.
Looking ahead, the Council is exploring new financing solutions, including a Sugar Sector Development Fund, to support investors. Bakrin stressed that future raw sugar import quotas will be strictly tied to operators’ performance, emphasizing that local sugarcane cultivation and processing are key to long-term sustainability.
