The Nigerian government has launched the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP), a key initiative aimed at boosting local sugar production and reducing the country’s reliance on imports. The programme, unveiled by the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), is a major component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II) and seeks to promote inclusive economic growth, particularly in rural areas.

According to NSDC Executive Secretary, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, the SODP is designed to scale up local sugarcane production, stimulate economic growth, and create opportunities for smallholder farmers to integrate into the industry’s supply chain. This pioneering initiative in Nigeria’s sugar sector will complement the output of existing large-scale sugar estates and help bridge the national supply gap.

The programme will engage three categories of farmers: agribusinesses and commercial farmers, farming cooperatives, and individual farmers or groups willing to jointly farm clusters of land. The NSDC’s Head of Out-Grower Management, Mrs. Lade Offurum, explained that the SODP will provide a structured framework for outgrower development, formally integrating farmers into the national sugar value chain for the first time.

The initiative is set to close on November 21, 2025, and is part of the government’s efforts to drive Nigeria towards self-sufficiency in sugar production. The SODP is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s sugar industry, promoting local production and reducing reliance on imported sugar.

The launch of the SODP is a significant step towards achieving the goals of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan, which aims to increase local sugar production and reduce imports. The programme’s focus on inclusive economic growth and smallholder farmer integration is also expected to have a positive impact on rural communities and the broader economy.

With the SODP, Nigeria is taking a major step towards becoming self-sufficient in sugar production, and the programme’s success will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and observers. As the country continues to work towards achieving its sugar production goals, the SODP is likely to play a key role in driving progress and promoting sustainable development in the sector.