Kwara State has declared its ambition to become a leading hub for Nigeria’s sugar industry, positioning agriculture as a driver of food security, job creation, and industrial growth.

The announcement was made during the National Workshop on Sustainable Sugar Production in Nigeria, held at Lagos Airport Hotels, where top government officials, private sector stakeholders, and development partners gathered to discuss strategies for boosting the country’s sugar sector.

Leading the Kwara delegation, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, said the state has witnessed renewed agricultural investment under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, particularly in areas strengthening the sugar value chain.

He noted that the state’s vast and fertile land is highly suitable for sugarcane cultivation, positioning Kwara to contribute strongly to Nigeria’s national sugar output and competitiveness in the global market.

“The sugar sector offers huge potential for farmers, investors, and our economy,” he said. 

“By integrating responsible practices, we can ensure long-term benefits while creating opportunities for industrial growth and rural prosperity.”

The workshop, convened by the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) in collaboration with Proforest, also proposed the establishment of a multi-stakeholder working group to implement the Sustainable Sugar Action Plan. 

Dr Alabi expressed confidence that the initiative would provide a practical framework for growth.

Source: Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture