Kwara advances sustainable sugar agenda
By Muyideen Aliyu
The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable agricultural development and economic diversification by taking a central role in national discussions on the future of sugarcane production.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, disclosed this during a recent workshop in Lagos focused on the Validation of Guidance for Responsible Production of Cane Sugar in Nigeria.
Representing the state government, Alabi described the engagement as a direct alignment with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision to build a resilient and commercially viable agricultural sector.
The Commissioner noted that adopting this guidance framework will enhance productivity, improve quality standards, and strengthen the entire sugarcane value chain.
He further explained that by adhering to these responsible production standards, Kwara is positioning itself to attract significant agro-industrial investment and create new jobs.
"Farmers in the state stand to benefit from improved production techniques, better market access, and increased income," Alabi stated.
He highlighted the Governor’s ongoing prioritization of policies that promote value addition and private sector participation, creating a fertile environment for growth within the sugar industry.
This move is strategically significant given Kwara State’s geographic advantage within the "Sugar Belt" of Nigeria.
The state is already home to major industrial players, such as the Dangote Sugar Refinery in Tunga and the BUA Sugar project in Lafiagi. By moving toward a standardized "Responsible Production" framework, Kwara is attempting to bridge the gap between traditional farming and high-stakes industrial demand.
This initiative also signals a shift toward sustainability, which is increasingly a requirement for international agribusiness financing.
By leading the validation of these guidelines, Kwara is not just focusing on volume, but on the global competitiveness of its sugar, which could pave the way for future exports and a more stable income for local smallholder farmers.