FG unveils outgrowers’ programme for sugar production
The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has unveiled the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at boosting local sugar production and moving Nigeria closer to self-sufficiency.
In a statement by the Council yesterday, the Council described it as a key component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan designed to integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar value chain, reduce reliance on imports, and stimulate inclusive economic growth, particularly in rural communities.
Speaking on the launch, NSDC Executive Secretary/CEO, Kamar Bakrin, said, “The SODP is designed to boost local sugarcane cultivation, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports, and create opportunities for inclusive economic growth by integrating outgrower farmers into the industry’s supply chain.
“This programme will complement the output of existing large-scale sugar estates and help close the national supply gap,” he said.
He further described the initiative as a pioneering step in Nigeria’s sugar sector.
“For the first time, a structured outgrower development programme will formally integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar value chain
“This campaign is about reaching every stakeholder, from large-scale operators to smallholder farmers, and ensuring that everyone has a fair opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s journey towards self-sufficiency in sugar production,” Bakrin added.
The SODP will provide farmers with guaranteed offtake agreements, access to quality seedcane and inputs, technical support, structured training programmes, and adoption of sustainable land and water use practices.
Head of Out-Grower Management at NSDC, Lade Offurum, explained that the programme will engage three categories of participants: large agribusinesses and commercial farmers cultivating 50–500+ hectares, cooperatives managing 30–50 hectares, and clusters of individual farmers jointly farming 30+ hectares.
According to NSDC, interested participants can apply while applications close on November 21, 2025.
