Nigeria’s quest for self-sufficiency in sugar production has taken a bold step forward. In a landmark meeting at the Government House in Minna, Niger State Governor Umar Bago assured the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the Lee Group of his administration’s readiness to provide land for a multi-million-dollar sugar project. This announcement signals not only Niger State’s commitment to agricultural transformation but also Nigeria’s broader ambition to reduce dependence on sugar imports and strengthen its agro-industrial base.
The Promise of Niger State
Niger State, the largest in Nigeria by land area, covers approximately 76,363 km² nearly 10 percent of the country’s total land mass. With vast arable land and abundant water resources, the state is uniquely positioned to become a hub for sugarcane cultivation and processing. Governor Bago’s declaration that investors could “choose any land in any part of the state” underscores the administration’s determination to attract credible partners and unlock the state’s agricultural potential.
The governor emphasized three critical enablers:
- Land availability – Niger State’s expansive territory offers flexibility for large-scale projects.
- Water resources – The state is home to major rivers and dams, ensuring irrigation potential.
- Political will – The administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for investors.
This combination of natural and institutional advantages makes Niger State a prime candidate for sugar development.
The Role of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC)
The NSDC has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s sugar revolution. Its mandate goes beyond policy formulation; it actively facilitates partnerships between investors and state governments. Executive Secretary/CEO Kamar Bakrin highlighted the council’s deliberate approach in selecting investors, stressing that only serious conglomerates with proven track records are invited to participate.
The NSDC recently concluded a national study identifying about 1.2 million hectares of land suitable for sugar development across Nigeria. Niger State emerged as one of the top 11 states with the most favorable conditions. This scientific validation strengthens the case for investment and reassures stakeholders of the project’s viability.
Enter the Lee Group
The Lee Group, owners of GNAL Sugar, is no stranger to industrial and agro-industrial ventures. With over six decades of experience in sugarcane cultivation, processing, and integrated value-chain development, the conglomerate brings credibility and expertise to the table.
Project Director Lam Wing Ki Wilkins emphasized the group’s long-term perspective:
“Sugar production is a long-term investment. Our interest in Niger State is based on its natural advantages, especially land and water resources, and we are prepared to work patiently with the state government and NSDC to develop a sustainable sugar project.”
This statement reflects the group’s commitment to sustainability, local value creation, and alignment with Nigeria’s sugar development objectives.
Why Sugar Matters to Nigeria
Nigeria consumes over 1.7 million metric tons of sugar annually, much of which is imported. This dependence drains foreign exchange reserves and exposes the country to global price fluctuations. By investing in local production, Nigeria aims to:
- Reduce import dependence.
- Create jobs across the value chain.
- Stimulate rural development.
- Strengthen food security.
- Position itself as a regional leader in sugar production.
The NSDC’s roadmap envisions Nigeria achieving self-sufficiency in sugar within the next decade. Strategic partnerships like the one unfolding in Niger State are critical to realizing this vision.
Economic and Social Impact
The proposed sugar project promises transformative benefits for Niger State and Nigeria at large:
Job Creation
Large-scale sugarcane cultivation and processing require significant labor. From farm workers to factory staff, thousands of jobs will be created, reducing unemployment and boosting household incomes.
Infrastructure Development
Sugar projects often necessitate roads, irrigation systems, and power facilities. These investments will improve local infrastructure, benefiting communities beyond the project itself.
Skills Transfer
Partnerships with experienced investors like the Lee Group will facilitate knowledge transfer. Nigerian workers and entrepreneurs will gain exposure to modern agro-industrial practices, enhancing local capacity.
Rural Transformation
By situating projects in rural areas, the initiative will stimulate local economies, reduce rural-urban migration, and foster inclusive growth.
Lessons from Other States
Niger State is not the first to embrace sugar investment. In November 2025, NSDC led the Lee Group to Taraba State, where Governor Agbu Kefas swiftly provided land and support for a similar project. These precedents demonstrate the growing momentum behind Nigeria’s sugar revolution and highlight the importance of proactive state leadership.
Challenges Ahead
While the prospects are promising, several challenges must be addressed:
- Infrastructure gaps – Roads, electricity, and irrigation systems must be developed to support large-scale operations.
- Policy consistency – Investors require assurance of stable policies and regulatory frameworks.
- Community engagement – Local communities must be involved to ensure social license and prevent conflicts.
- Environmental sustainability – Sugarcane cultivation can be water-intensive; careful planning is needed to balance agricultural expansion with ecological preservation.
Governor Bago’s emphasis on collaboration and long-term partnership suggests that these challenges are recognized and will be addressed proactively.
A Strategic Opportunity for Niger State
Niger State’s openness to investment reflects a broader vision of economic diversification. By leveraging its natural resources and political will, the state can position itself as a leader in agro-industrial development. The sugar project is not just about producing sweetener; it is about catalyzing a new era of prosperity.
Conclusion
The Niger State government’s decision to offer land for a multi-million-dollar sugar project marks a turning point in Nigeria’s agricultural journey. With the NSDC’s guidance and the Lee Group’s expertise, the initiative promises to deliver jobs, infrastructure, and economic growth. More importantly, it aligns with Nigeria’s national goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production.
As Governor Bago aptly put it:
“Niger State is open to serious investors. We have the land, water, and political will to support projects that will grow our economy and create jobs.” This bold invitation sets the stage for Niger State to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sugar revolution, a sweet future built on strong roots and visionary leadership.
