The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and the Lee Group have unveiled plans to develop a large-scale sugar production venture in Taraba State, marking a significant stride toward Nigeria’s vision of attaining full sugar self-sufficiency. This landmark initiative is projected to drive economic expansion, generate employment, and advance rural transformation across the state.
A senior delegation from both NSDC and the Lee Group visited Jalingo, the state capital, to engage with the Taraba State Government and secure its endorsement for the project. The council reiterated that its mandate extends beyond policy creation to capacity enhancement, technical assistance, sugarcane research, and facilitating financing and land acquisition for willing investors.
Representatives of the Lee Group reaffirmed the company’s dedication to a long-term partnership with the state authorities. Through its subsidiary, GNAAL Sugar, the organisation plans to build a state-of-the-art sugar processing plant, introduce an inclusive out-grower programme for local farmers, and strengthen the state’s revenue streams while supporting small business development in agricultural communities.
Enjoying this article? Share it with your network!
Taraba State officials expressed strong support for the collaboration, noting that the state’s vast arable land and diverse natural resources make it an excellent location for large-scale agricultural and industrial ventures. The government also assured its readiness to create a favourable environment for the project, reinforcing its commitment to attracting strategic investments aligned with national growth priorities.
The alliance between NSDC and the Lee Group is expected to significantly boost domestic sugar production, enhance value creation for farmers, expand industrial output, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s broader economic diversification agenda. By connecting agricultural productivity with modern industrial processing, the project stands as a model for sustainable development that other states may emulate.
