The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has officially designated sugar production as a primary catalyst for industrial development across the federation, entering into a strategic partnership with the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) to accelerate domestic self-sufficiency.
​Under the new agreement, the NGF Secretariat will prioritize sugar projects in its engagements with international and local development partners. The collaboration aims to prepare “investor-ready” projects by streamlining land access, infrastructure provision, and incentive frameworks within the states.
​Economic Viability and Market Potential
​During a high-level briefing with NGF leadership, the Executive Secretary of the NSDC, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, highlighted that Nigeria’s sugar sector is currently valued at $2 billion, with the potential to reach $7 billion under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Furthermore, the market for sugar by-products in Nigeria alone is estimated at $10 billion.
​Mr. Bakrin noted that recent macroeconomic shifts have bolstered the sector’s competitiveness. While global prices remain stable in dollar terms, the depreciation of the Naira has made imports more expensive, significantly favoring domestic production where inputs are largely locally sourced.
​Key Investment Highlights
​The NSDC identified 11 states with proven land suitability for profitable sugar production:
- ​North: Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Adamawa, Taraba, Nasarawa, Niger.
- ​West: Oyo, Kwara.
