The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the Lee Group have taken a major step toward establishing a large-scale sugar production site in Taraba State, marking a significant move in Nigeria’s drive for sugar self-sufficiency.
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSDC, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, led a high-powered delegation of Council officials and Lee Group management to Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, to seek the support and collaboration of Governor Agbu Kefas and the state government for the multi-million-dollar sugar investment.
During the visit, Mr. Bakrin explained that the Council’s mission was to explore opportunities for a major sugar investment that would play a vital role in achieving Nigeria’s sugar production goals. He noted that the NSDC’s core mandate includes developing capacity within the sugar industry through training programs, extension services, and sugarcane research, while also assisting investors with financing, feasibility studies, and land access for sugar-related projects.
“Sugar is an incredibly significant socio-economic product globally, employing about 100 million people in over 120 countries. Sugar estates are often located in rural areas, they naturally drive local development without causing environmental degradation. In fact, sugar cultivation contributes positively to environmental sustainability,” Mr. Bakrin stated.
The Executive Secretary revealed that a comprehensive national study carried out by the Council had identified about 1.2 million hectares of land across Nigeria as suitable for sugar development. He emphasized that Taraba State ranks among the most strategically positioned for such projects.
“Taraba State has passed all our technical and environmental suitability criteria with flying colours. We consider the state as one of the most promising locations for sugar investment in Nigeria. The Lee Group, through its subsidiary GNAAL Sugar, has also met our requirements as a credible investor with both financial strength and technical expertise,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Lee Group, the Project Director, Mr. Lam Wing Ki Wilkins, expressed the company’s commitment to setting up the sugar project in Taraba, highlighting the state’s “immense potential for agriculture and industrial growth.”
“We are not here merely to present an idea — we are here to build a lasting partnership. Our investment will enhance the state’s revenue base, create significant employment opportunities, stimulate local enterprise, and empower farming communities through an inclusive out-grower scheme,” Mr. Wilkins said.
He further explained that the Lee Group has been operating in Nigeria for over six decades with a strong reputation in manufacturing, training, and agriculture.
“With the continued support of His Excellency and the good people of Taraba State, we are confident that this project will become a model for sugar development in Nigeria and a testament to what strong public–private collaboration can achieve,” he added.
Responding, Governor Agbu Kefas assured the delegation of his administration’s readiness to support the project and create a conducive environment for investors. He emphasized that Taraba State is open for business and has made remarkable progress in addressing previous security concerns.
According to him, “Taraba is nature’s gift to the nation, blessed with abundant natural resources and vast arable land suitable for agricultural ventures. The state is peaceful and safe for both local and foreign investments.”
Governor Kefas encouraged investors to take advantage of the opportunities available in the state’s agricultural and industrial sectors, particularly in sugar production, which is a key part of Taraba’s agricultural agenda.
He identified Kurmi, Lau, and Ibi Local Government Areas as ideal locations for large-scale sugar cultivation and processing projects, assuring the delegation that the state government would provide all necessary support, including access to suitable land, to ensure the project’s success.
