Nigeria is set to harness Chinese technology and expertise to enhance its sugar production, aiming to meet domestic demand and expand its footprint in the global sugar market.
The initiative was announced on Wednesday by the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, during a working visit by a delegation from the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), led by its Executive Secretary, Mr. Kamar Bakrin.
The discussions centered on fostering collaboration between both organizations and exploring strategic partnerships to modernize Nigeria’s sugar sector through Nigeria-China cooperation.
Welcoming the delegation, Tegbe highlighted the significant potential of Nigeria’s sugar industry and commended the NSDC’s commitment to its development. He emphasized that the partnership with China would facilitate the adoption of advanced technology and industry expertise to enhance sugar production, ensuring Nigeria meets local consumption needs while also positioning itself as a key player in the international market.
China, a major force in the global sugar industry, imports approximately 5 million metric tonnes of sugar annually—valued at $10 billion—alongside its domestic production of 10.5 million metric tonnes. By leveraging this partnership, Nigeria aims to modernize its sugar sector and secure a share of the lucrative global market.
A statement released on Wednesday outlined the NSDC’s strategic vision to position Nigeria as a key beneficiary of the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The collaboration will encompass:
- Deployment of advanced sugar production technology
- Efficient conversion of by-products for industrial use
- Training programs for farmers on modern agricultural techniques
- Technology transfer initiatives
- Access to low-interest financing to support new sugar production estates and ventures
This initiative aligns with the second phase of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP) and supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification and sustainable growth.
The NCSP, under the leadership of Joseph Tegbe, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China relations, with the partnership with the NSDC marking a pivotal step toward revitalizing the country’s sugar industry.
Accompanying Mr. Bakrin on the NSDC delegation were Ms. Edirin Akemu, Head of Strategy and Performance Management, and Mr. Teslim Bello, Head of the Executive Secretary’s Office.
