FG sets Dangote Sugar 600,000MT production target by 2030

The federal government has tasked the Dangote Group to raise the annual production capacity of its subsidiary, Dangote Sugar Refinery, to 600,000 metric tonnes by 2030.

The directive was given by John Owan Enoh, the minister of state for industry during an inspection visit to the company’s sugar complex in Numan.

Enoh said the move forms part of efforts to accelerate Nigeria’s drive towards self-sufficiency in sugar production, noting that domestic output remains far below the country’s annual consumption of 1.8 million metric tonnes.

“DSR is a very big player in the industry and one of the three major operators. Our situation in this sector will continue to depend on what DSR does. It is very important,” the minister said.

He added that the company must contribute at least 600,000 metric tonnes by 2030 and sustain the target beyond that period.

The minister praised the National Sugar Development Council for its oversight role and said the scale of investment at the new 6,000 tonnes-per-day plant reflected strong commitment to the objectives of the Backward Integration Programme.

He said, “I am indeed very pleased with what I have seen today, but scaling up production to meet Mr President’s expectations is crucial. My visit is to demonstrate government’s seriousness and commitment to ensuring Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in sugar production.”

Enoh also acknowledged challenges facing the sector, particularly access to affordable long-term financing, often described as patient capital, saying the government was exploring ways to support investors.

Responding, Olakunle Alake, the vice President of the Dangote Group assured the government of the company’s renewed commitment to increase output and meet the 2030 target.

During the visit, the minister and officials of the National Sugar Development Council inspected factory expansion works, harvest fields, haulage systems and refining facilities at the complex.