Push for self-sufficiency gains momentum as government ramps up pressure on local producers…..
Nigeria’s drive to cut dependence on imported sugar is gathering pace, with the federal government directing Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc to significantly expand production at its subsidiary, Golden Sugar Company (GSC), to 300,000 metric tonnes annually by 2030.
The directive was issued by Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, during an inspection visit to the company’s Sunti facility in Niger State. He was accompanied by Kamar Bakrin, head of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC).
The visit forms part of a broader nationwide review of sugar projects, in line with the industrialisation agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises achieving self-sufficiency in key commodities.
Closing Nigeria’s sugar gap
Speaking during the tour, Enoh highlighted the urgency of scaling up domestic production, noting that Nigeria currently consumes an estimated 1.8 million metric tonnes of sugar annually, far exceeding local output.
He stressed that Golden Sugar Company is expected to play a central role in bridging that gap, with a target contribution of at least 300,000 metric tonnes within the next five years.
While commending the scale and operations of the Sunti complex, the minister said the project demonstrates the potential of Nigeria’s sugar industry under the backward integration programme (BIP), which encourages local production over imports.
Beyond production, he pointed to the facility’s employment impact, noting that it supports thousands of jobs at peak capacity, an outcome aligned with the government’s broader economic objectives.
Still, Enoh was clear that progress must accelerate. Despite visible gains, he said current output levels remain below expectations, underscoring the need for sustained investment and execution to meet national targets.
Industry backing and expansion plans
Echoing the government’s position, NSDC boss Kamar Bakrin acknowledged the strides made so far but emphasized that accountability and consistent performance will be critical going forward. He added that the council remains actively engaged in supporting Golden Sugar Company’s expansion efforts.
For its part, the company says it is already laying the groundwork for rapid growth. Group CEO Boye Olusanya revealed that GSC currently cultivates about 6,600 hectares and produces roughly 20,000 metric tonnes annually.
However, plans are underway to scale production dramatically to about 290,000 metric tonnes by 2030 bringing it close to the government’s target.
A broader industrial push
The renewed focus on sugar production reflects a wider strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing base, reduce import dependence, and retain more value within the domestic economy.
With policy backing, regulatory oversight, and private sector investment now aligning, the success of projects like Golden Sugar Company could determine how quickly Nigeria turns its long-standing self-sufficiency ambitions into reality.
