The Federal Government, through the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), has unveiled plans to establish a multi-million-dollar sugar processing plant in Taraba State as part of efforts to enhance local production and drive Nigeria’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar.

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSDC, Kamar Bakrin, led a delegation to Jalingo alongside officials of Lee Group to seek the support of Governor Agbu Kefas and the Taraba State Government for the project.

Bakrin described the initiative as a significant investment that will expand Nigeria’s sugar production capacity, reduce import dependency, and promote economic growth.

He explained that the NSDC’s responsibilities include providing assistance to investors through funding, feasibility studies, technical training, research, and access to land.

“Sugar remains a vital socio-economic commodity worldwide, supporting nearly 100 million jobs across more than 120 countries. Sugar estates also foster rural development and contribute to environmental sustainability,” Bakrin stated.

He noted that Taraba State had “met all technical and environmental suitability requirements,” making it an ideal location for large-scale sugar cultivation and processing.

Bakrin further disclosed that Lee Group, through its subsidiary GNAAL Sugar, had fulfilled all necessary conditions as a credible investor with strong financial and technical capacity.

In his remarks, Governor Agbu Kefas assured the delegation of the state government’s full cooperation and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining an enabling environment for investment.

He highlighted Taraba’s abundance of natural resources and vast arable land suitable for agricultural projects, particularly sugar production.

Governor Kefas added that the state has overcome previous security challenges and is now peaceful and conducive for business, urging investors to take advantage of the growing opportunities in Taraba’s agricultural sector.