The Executive Secretary, National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr. Zacch Adedeji has urged governors of sugar producing states to contribute towards the revitalization and success of the Phase 2 of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP) to create jobs and reduce poverty.
Mr. Adedeji who made the appeal, during a courtesy visit to the Governor of Nasarawa state and Chairman, Forum of Governors of Sugar Producing States, Engr. Sule Abdullahi in Lafia, Nasarawa state, said state governors as landlords of sugar projects in their respective domains have contributed to the modest success so far recorded in the industry.
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In a statement by its Head of Public Affairs Unit, Abdullahi Abdullahi, the NSDC head said: “We’ve made considerable progress in critical segments of the NSMP, especially as it relates to the refining component of the plan. Our next plan of action is to replicate the successes recorded in the area of sugar refining in our field and agricultural operations.”
“We are quite optimistic about our projections in the sugar industry. The sugar sector holds tremendous opportunities for Nigeria and Nigerians in terms of job creation for our youths, increased revenue and general economic prosperity for the nation.”
He however said Backward Integration Programme (BIP) operators face challenges of scarcity of forex, the ongoing war in Ukraine and many other external factors which have slowed down their pace of progress on their sites.
Governor Sule noted that as a product of the sector who understands the opportunities and its numerous potentials, pledged the continuous support of the Forum he heads to revitalize the sector.