Industry Minister John Owan Enoh has highlighted how Nigeria’s sugar industry could play a crucial role in President Bola Tinubu’s ambitious goal of building a $1 trillion economy.
Speaking at a House of Representatives Committee on Industry public hearing focused on amending the National Sugar Development Council’s Establishment Act, Enoh referenced recent Federal Executive Council discussions, where the President underscored the sector’s significance.
“About two weeks ago, the President spoke about sugar at the FEC meeting.
“That in itself reflects the importance of sugar as a strategic industrial and domestic product that no country should take lightly — and Nigeria should be no exception.
“The sugar sector has a significant role to play in the President’s commitment to a $1 trillion economy.
“Our approach must ensure it contributes effectively to job creation and rural economic development,” he stated.
The National Sugar Development Council’s Executive Secretary, Kamar Bakrin, revealed that proper execution of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan could save over $1 billion in foreign exchange reserves each year. The plan also promises substantial employment opportunities, major investment inflows, and enhanced rural development.
Bakrin outlined how the proposed legal changes would restructure the council’s authority and align its financial framework with constitutional requirements. He emphasised that strong investor trust remains essential for the master plan’s success.
“We require about $4.5 billion in investments to fully achieve the NSMP’s objectives,” he said.
“Investor confidence is therefore crucial, and this can only be attained through transparent and rule-based policies,” he added.
Bakrin raised concerns about a recent government decision requiring half of sugar levy collections to flow into the Consolidated Revenue Fund, arguing that this could derail sector advancement.
“The sugar levy was not intended as a general revenue-generating mechanism but as a dedicated fund to support the sector’s growth.
“Redirecting it threatens to defeat its original purpose,” Bakrin cautioned.
Iba Edward, a representative from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), supported the bill’s objectives while warning against the creation of conflicting regulatory frameworks.
“Some proposed provisions encroach on NAFDAC’s core responsibilities under Section 5 of our Act.
“We urge lawmakers to clearly define roles to avoid duplication,” she stated.
Former Minister Aliyu Idi Hong, speaking for BUA Group, showcased the company’s sugar development initiatives, including a 50,000-hectare plantation with 20,000 hectares currently in production. He emphasised that consistent policies are vital for maintaining investor engagement.
Onome Okurah from Flour Mills of Nigeria, which operates the Golden Sugar Company in Sunti, Niger State, discussed ongoing efforts to enhance local production. He reported that GSC manages over 6,000 hectares and sustains sugar production for four months annually.
“With stronger partnerships, we expect tangible results in the coming years,” he stated.
House Committee Chairman Enitan Dolapo Badru concluded by promising that the amendment process would incorporate all stakeholder perspectives while strengthening the NSDC’s capacity to deliver on its responsibilities.
