In a significant push for agricultural self-sufficiency, the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has officially launched the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP).
The initiative is a core component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II) and is designed to rapidly expand the domestic cultivation of sugarcane.
Announcing the programme, the NSDC’s Executive Secretary, Kamar Bakrin, stated that the SODP aims to reduce Nigeria’s heavy dependence on sugar imports and stimulate inclusive economic growth, particularly in rural communities. He described the programme as a “pioneering milestone” that will, for the first time, create a structured framework to integrate farmers of all scales into the national sugar value chain.
To empower participants, the council will provide a suite of support measures. These include guaranteed offtake agreements for their harvest, access to quality seedcane and inputs, technical assistance, and training on sustainable farming practices.
The programme is designed to be inclusive, targeting three main categories: large-scale agribusinesses, farming cooperatives, and individual farmers or groups willing to farm clusters of land. According to the NSDC, applications for the programme will close on November 21, 2025.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on a press announcement from the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC). CDA News reports this information for public awareness and is not involved in the application process or programme implementation.
