Nigeria launches sugarcane outgrower development programme to boost local sugar production
Nigeria rolls out national outgrower programme to scale sugarcane cultivation and cut reliance on sugar imports.
NIGERIA – The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has launched the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP), a flagship initiative intended to expand domestic sugarcane production and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports.
The programme is a key component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II), which seeks to position the country on a path toward sugar self-sufficiency and boost rural economic development.
Announcing the initiative, NSDC Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer Kamar Bakrin stated that the programme has been designed to support the integration of farmers into the national sugar value chain while complementing the output of large-scale estates.
He noted that the SODP marks the first structured initiative in the sector aimed at formally incorporating producers at all levels into sugar industrialisation efforts.
“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,” Bakrin said.
He added that the programme will provide farmers with guaranteed offtake agreements, market access, quality seedcane, inputs, technical support, and sustainability-focused training.
Bakrin emphasised that the programme targets every layer of participation within the value chain, from smallholders to commercial operations, ensuring nationwide inclusiveness in advancing self-sufficiency goals.
“This campaign is about reaching every stakeholder and ensuring that everyone has a fair opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s journey towards self-sufficiency in sugar production,” he noted.
Head of Out-Grower Management at NSDC, Lade Offurum, explained that the programme will engage agribusinesses cultivating 50–500 hectares or more, cooperatives operating clusters of 30 to 50 hectares, and individuals or groups willing to jointly farm plots of over 30 hectares.
Interested applicants can submit applications, with submissions closing on November 21, 2025.
The NSDC stated that the launch of the SODP reinforces its commitment to the NSMP II objectives, including increasing local sugar output, empowering farming communities, and building a competitive sugar industry capable of meeting national demand and expanding economic opportunities across rural regions.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
