Umar Bago has pledged land and full state backing for a proposed multi-million dollar sugar project involving the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the Lee Group.
The governor gave the assurance while receiving an NSDC and Lee Group delegation at the Government House in Minna. He urged the investors to select suitable land anywhere in the state, promising swift allocation and support.
“We have the land, water and political will to support projects that will grow our economy and create jobs,” Bago said.
The NSDC delegation, led by Kamar Bakrin, its Executive Secretary, said the visit was part of efforts to attract credible investors to boost Nigeria’s sugar production.
Bakrin described Lee Group, owners of GNAL Sugar, as an experienced industrial conglomerate with capacity for long-term sugar investments. He added that the council’s role extends beyond policy to facilitating access to land, infrastructure and institutional support for viable projects.
Nigeria is pursuing greater self-sufficiency in sugar production under its national sugar development strategy.
Niger State, Nigeria’s largest by landmass at about 76,363 km², has been identified as one of the country’s most suitable locations for sugarcane cultivation due to its vast arable land and water resources.
A recent NSDC national study identified 1.2 million hectares nationwide as suitable for sugar development, listing Niger among the 11 most viable states.
The state already hosts the Golden Sugar Company in Sunti, Mokwa Local Government Area.
Lam Wing Ki Wilkins, Lee Group’s Project Director, said the company brings over 60 years of industrial and agro-industrial experience, noting that sugar production requires patient, long-term capital.
He expressed readiness to collaborate with both the state government and NSDC to develop a sustainable sugar value chain in Niger.
Officials say the partnership could strengthen local production, create jobs and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports.
