The Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Joseph Utsev, has committed to addressing the challenges hindering water supply to Nigeria’s sugar estates, supporting the National Sugar Development Council’s (NSDC) goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production. This assurance was given during a meeting with NSDC’s Executive Secretary, Kamar Bakrin, and his team, who highlighted water supply issues affecting sugar production due to insufficient irrigation and access to reliable water sources.

Bakrin explained that sugarcane needs between 1,500mm and 2,500mm of water throughout its 12 to 18-month growth cycle, without which yield and sugar content suffer. He sought the Minister’s approval for constructing a 20km canal from River Hadejia to Gagarawa in Jigawa State, which would support the Great Northern Nigeria Agri-business Limited’s (GNAL) 5,000-ton daily capacity sugar project, potentially creating over 5,000 jobs. Despite initial steps like securing land and planning infrastructure, GNAL still awaits approval for its Bulk Water Supply (BWS) and Field Irrigation System design, submitted in 2022.

Additionally, Bakrin requested the enforcement of a Presidential directive exempting sugar sector businesses from water-related charges, as companies like Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) face increased water costs despite the order. Other requests included dredging and primary canal construction for the Kiri Dam, which could improve water access to DSR’s 15,000-strong workforce, and river management to protect sugar estates from flooding, especially the Golden Sugar Estate in Sunti, Niger State. Proposed flood-control measures include regular dredging, real-time flow monitoring, and enhanced weather forecasting.

The minister expressed a commitment to collaborating with the NSDC and sugar sector stakeholders, recognizing water’s vital role in local sugar production. He reassured the NSDC of the ministry’s full support, emphasizing his readiness to assist in alleviating challenges that currently drive Nigeria’s reliance on imported sugar.