The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has unveiled a new initiative to integrate outgrower farmers into Nigeria’s sugar industry, boosting local production and promoting inclusive economic growth. The announcement was made by the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NSDC, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, during the launch of the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP) in Abuja.

Bakrin explained that the SODP is designed to complement existing large-scale sugar estates, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports, and create opportunities for rural economic development. “This programme is a key component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II) and has been designed to scale up local sugarcane production, reduce the nation’s reliance on imports, and stimulate inclusive economic growth, particularly within rural communities,” he said.

He added, “For the first time, a structured outgrower development programme will formally integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar value chain. This initiative reaches all stakeholders, from large-scale operators to smallholder farmers, ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s journey toward self-sufficiency in sugar production.”

The SODP will empower participating farmers through guaranteed offtake agreements, access to quality seed cane and inputs, technical support, structured training programmes, and the adoption of sustainable land and water use practices.

Mrs. Lade Offurum, Head of Outgrower Management at NSDC, outlined that the programme will engage three categories of participants:

1. Agribusinesses and commercial farmers cultivating 50–500+ hectares.
2. Farming cooperatives, organised in clusters of 30–50 hectares.
3. Individual farmers or groups of friends willing to jointly farm clusters of 30+ hectares.

Interested farmers are advised to apply through the NSDC via email before the application deadline on November 21, 2025.

With the launch of the SODP, NSDC continues to advance the objectives of NSMP II, accelerating investments in local production, empowering farmers, and driving Nigeria’s vision for a globally competitive sugar industry.