Sugar production: Minister pledges solution to irrigation problems

The Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Joseph Utsev has pledged to tackle the persistent irrigation challenges hampering sugar production across Nigeria.

The minister affirmed his ministry’s commitment to supporting the National Sugar Development Council’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production.

Utsev made this commitment while hosting the NSDC’s Executive Secretary/CEO, Mr Kamar Bakrin, and his team in Abuja.

Bakrin sought the minister’s support to resolve critical water access issues affecting sugar estates, which have struggled to maintain consistent irrigation.

During the visit, Bakrin highlighted the necessity of a steady water supply for sugarcane cultivation, which requires 1,500-2,500mm of water over its 12-18 month growth cycle.

Without this, he explained, sugarcane yields and quality are compromised, leading to reduced sugar output.

Specifically, the NSDC head requested the minister’s approval for a 20-kilometre open canal system to transport water from the River Hadejia to Gagarawa in Jigawa State, to serve the Great Northern Nigeria Agri-business Limited (GNAL) sugarcane project.

He noted that GNAL’s 5,000 TCD project, expected to create over 5,000 jobs, has been delayed due to irrigation issues.

Despite obtaining a Water Use Licence in 2018 with an annual abstraction threshold of 249 million m³, the project’s Bulk Water Supply and Field Irrigation System designs have yet to receive final approval from the ministry.

Bakrin also appealed for the implementation of a 2023 Presidential directive exempting NSMP II businesses from paying Annual Right-of-Way fees or assigned water usage charges.

He noted that, despite the directive, Dangote Sugar Refinery continues to face rising water charges for its Kiri Dam usage, and requests for a primary canal to supply water to DSR’s estate are still pending.

Further requests from the NSDC included dredging support for Kiri Dam, construction of primary canals, and flood risk management along the Niger River to protect the Golden Sugar Estate in Sunti, Niger State.

Bakrin proposed regular dredging, real-time monitoring through flow gauges, and enhanced coordination on water releases for irrigation, power generation, and flood control.

He stressed that without these interventions, operators would continue importing sugar from Brazil, harming Nigeria’s economy.
In response, Utsev expressed the ministry’s readiness to work closely with the NSDC to improve irrigation systems and support sugarcane producers nationwide.

“Sugarcane cannot thrive without water. It’s about 70% water content, so irrigation is vital.

“We are committed to supporting local sugar production and will address these proposals. Our doors are open to all stakeholders. If it falls within our mandate, we’re here to help, even if it requires collaboration with other ministries,” he said.

The minister commended the NSDC’s efforts, reiterating that strengthening the sugar sector aligns with the government’s economic priorities and would enhance the livelihoods of Nigerians.