• Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Joseph Utsev, pledges to tackle irrigation challenges in sugar production
• National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) seeks support for water access issues affecting sugar estates
• Proposed solutions include 20km open canal system and dredging support for Kiri Dam
• Aim to achieve self-sufficiency in sugar production and reduce imports from Brazil
Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Joseph Utsev, has committed to resolving the persistent irrigation challenges hindering sugar production across the country. During a meeting with the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr. Kamar Bakrin, Utsev assured his ministry’s support for the NSDC’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production.
Bakrin emphasized 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. He requested the minister’s approval for a 20-kilometre open canal system to transport water from the River Hadejia to Gagarawa in Jigawa State, serving the Great Northern Nigeria Agri-business Limited (GNAL) sugarcane project.
The NSDC 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. Additionally, Bakrin proposed regular dredging, real-time monitoring through flow gauges, and enhanced coordination on water releases for irrigation, power generation, and flood control.
