The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and Lee Group have finalised plans for a multi-million-dollar sugar production project in Taraba state, which aligns with the Federal Government’s push to reduce sugar imports, expand domestic production, and create new employment opportunities in rural farming communities.
The proposed investment was formally presented in Jalingo when NSDC executive secretary, Mr Kamar Bakrin, led a delegation of council officials and Lee Group representatives to meet Governor Agbu Kefas. The visit will secure state-level support for the swift implementation of the project.
Bakrin described the project as a strategic milestone in Nigeria’s sugar industry growth plan, noting that the NSDC plays a key role in investor support through feasibility studies, land facilitation, policy alignment, and technical advisory.
“Sugar is an incredibly significant socio-economic product globally, employing about 100 million people in more than 120 countries,” he said.
“Sugar estates are usually located in rural areas and naturally drive development without harming the environment.”
He revealed that a national sugar feasibility survey by the NSDC identified 1.2 million hectares of suitable land across the country, with Taraba emerging as one of the most viable locations.
“Taraba has passed all technical and environmental suitability tests with flying colours, making it one of Nigeria’s most strategic states for sugar investment,” he added.
The project will be implemented through GNAAL Sugar, a subsidiary of Lee Group, which Bakrin described as a credible partner with the financial capacity and technical expertise to deliver at scale.
Mr Lam Wilkins, Project Director of the Lee Group, stated that the company was ready to develop a world-class sugar production hub, which would strengthen the local economy.
“We are not here merely to present an idea. We are here to build a lasting partnership,” Wilkins said. “This investment will enhance state revenues, create jobs, stimulate local enterprises and empower farmers through an inclusive out-grower scheme.”
He noted that the Lee Group has been active in Nigeria for over 60 years, with investments spanning manufacturing, vocational training, and agriculture, adding that the Taraba sugar project could set a national benchmark for public–private collaboration.
Governor Kefas welcomed the initiative, reaffirming Taraba’s readiness to support agricultural investors.
He described the state as “nature’s gift to the nation”, citing its fertile land and climate advantages for large-scale crop production.
“We are committed to creating an enabling environment for investors, especially in agriculture and industry. Taraba is peaceful and open for business,” the governor said.
Kefas identified the Kurmi, Lau, and Ibi local government areas as prime locations for sugar cultivation and pledged to provide land access and logistical support to accelerate the project’s take-off.
He also proposed a tripartite implementation committee involving the state government, NSDC, and Lee Group to oversee execution and monitor progress.
The partnership, he added, aligns with the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan and has the potential to stimulate industrial growth, expand rural farming value chains, and strengthen the country’s path to sugar self-sufficiency.
Source: NAN
