The Federal Government has tasked Dangote Sugar Refinery to scale up its annual production capacity to 600,000 metric tonnes by 2030, as part of efforts to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on sugar imports.
The directive was issued by John Owan Enoh during an inspection visit to the company’s facility in Numan, Adamawa State. The visit forms part of a nationwide assessment of sugar projects. Aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s push for self-sufficiency in local sugar production.
Nigeria currently consumes about 1.8 million metric tonnes of Dangote sugar annually, but local production remains far below this demand.
The government says increasing local output is critical to reducing import dependence. Saving foreign exchange, and strengthening the country’s agro-industrial base. As one of the leading players in the sector. Dangote Sugar is expected to play a central role in closing this supply gap.
Industry Growth Faces Funding and Capacity Challenges
Officials say the target is achievable but will require increased investment, infrastructure expansion, and stronger collaboration between the government and private sector.
During the visit, authorities inspected ongoing projects, including a new 6,000 tonnes-per-day processing plant. As well as farming and processing operations under the company’s backward integration programme.
The government also acknowledged key challenges, particularly access to long-term financing. Often referred to as “patient capital”—needed to expand production capacity and modernise facilities.
Dangote Group representatives, however, expressed confidence in meeting the 600,000MT target by 2030, reaffirming their commitment to scaling up operations and supporting national goals.
Analysts say achieving the target would mark a major milestone for Nigeria’s sugar industry, reducing imports and boosting local value chains.
If successful, the move could significantly transform the sector—positioning Nigeria closer to self-sufficiency while creating jobs and driving economic growth across the agricultural value chain.
