Sugar sector backward integration will tackle unemployment — NSDC

The Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr Zacch Adedeji, has said the Backward Integration Programme (BIP) for the sugar industry contained in the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP) will tackle soaring unemployment and address other socio-economic issues in the country.

A statement signed by the Council’s Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Malam Ahmed Waziri, in Abuja on Wednesday indicated that Mr Adedeji made the statement while on a familiarisation visit to sugar refineries in Lagos State.

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Mr Adedeji linked violent crimes and insecurity to rising unemployment, adding that the sugar sector can provide millions of jobs for Nigerians.

“The sugar sector is a goldmine that holds numerous potentials and opportunities for Nigeria and Nigerians.

“It is a sector that has provided direct and indirect jobs for thousands of our citizens across disciplines and professions.

“We are all concerned about the need to provide job opportunities for our people,” he said.

He assured investors in the sector of government’s support in terms of policy and technical assistance.