The National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has unveiled the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP), a major initiative designed to integrate smallholder farmers into Nigeria's sugar industry supply chain and drive inclusive economic growth.
Speaking at the official launch in Abuja, Mr. Kamar Bakrin, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NSDC, said the programme represents a key milestone under the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan II (NSMP II), which aims to scale up local production and reduce the nation's dependence on sugar imports.
"This is a pioneering initiative for Nigeria's sugar sector. For the first time, a structured outgrower programme will formally integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar value chain," Bakrin said.
"Our goal is to empower local producers, stimulate rural economies, and move Nigeria closer to self-sufficiency in sugar production."
The SODP will connect outgrower farmers with established sugar estates, ensuring they benefit from guaranteed offtake agreements, access to quality seed cane and farm inputs, technical assistance, and structured training on sustainable agricultural practices.
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According to Bakrin, the programme also seeks to promote efficient land and water use, while strengthening market linkages that guarantee profitability for participants.
Mrs. Lade Offurum, Head of Outgrower Management at NSDC, explained that the SODP targets three categories of participants —
1. Commercial farmers cultivating between 50 and 500+ hectares,
2. Farming cooperatives operating organised clusters of 30–50 hectares, and
3. Individual farmers or groups of friends managing joint clusters of 30+ hectares.
She encouraged interested participants to apply via the Council's official email, noting that applications close on November 21, 2025.
Offurum said the SODP reinforces NSDC's broader mandate to expand domestic sugarcane production, attract private investment, and support Nigeria's transition toward a globally competitive sugar industry.
"With the SODP, we are not only improving productivity — we are empowering farmers, creating jobs, and ensuring that growth in the sugar sector benefits every layer of the economy," she added.
