NSDC boss meets new investors in sugar production
The Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, Kamar Bakrin, has set 2025 as the year for intensified efforts towards sugar project development in Nigeria.
Bakrin made this declaration on Friday during a meeting with investors from Utham Sucrotech International, an Indian firm, Niger Food Security Systems and Logistics Ltd, and American West African Agro.
According to a statement on Sunday, the discussions focused on Utham’s role in the Greenfield sugar project spearheaded by AWAA in Niger State. Utham, known for its expertise in field and factory establishment for sugar production across India, Europe, and Africa, will provide critical support to the project.
Speaking at the meeting, Utham’s Global Business Development Leader, Mr. Sanjiv Gulati, outlined the company’s track record, noting their ability to fabricate equipment and deliver up to 13% sugar recovery in existing projects.
Gulati assured the NSDC boss that Utham’s involvement in Nigeria would boost sugar project development and contribute to the growth of the sector.
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Adding to the discussion, Mr. Flavio Castellari, a financial expert with Utham, gave insights into the Brazilian sugar industry, outlining funding models that Nigeria could adopt to improve its sugar production capabilities.
In a further statement, the Executive Chairman of Niger Foods, Mr. Sammy Adigun, highlighted a financing arrangement backed by both sovereign and corporate guarantees for the development of a 100,000-hectare sugar project in Niger State.
He also emphasized the company’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility as a key component of the project.
Bakrin reaffirmed the NSDC’s commitment to supporting the investors, stressing the need for improvement in sugar yield across estates. He also sought clarification on sugar recovery rates, specifically with regard to Utham’s work at Dangote Sugar Refinery. In response, Gulati confirmed a 12.3% recovery rate.
Other NSDC officials present at the meeting included Director of Strategy and Performance Management, Ms. Edirin Akemu; Senior Adviser to the Executive Secretary, Mr. Teslim Bello; Acting Director of Project Development and Investment Promotion, Mr. Balarebe Ladan; and Head of Project Development and Support Division, Mr. John Adaga.
