The Nigerian federal government is taking proactive steps to transform the country into a major sweeteners producer in West Africa and the African continent as a whole. In recognition of the growing demand for sweeteners and the potential for economic benefits, the government aims to provide necessary incentives and support to encourage commercial production of sweetener plant species.
The Raw Material Research Development Council (RMRDC) is playing a vital role in this endeavor. The council has been actively mobilizing investors and promoting the cultivation of crops such as sweet sorghum and sugar beet, which have shown promise in the production of glucose syrup and other sweetener products.
The cultivation of sweet sorghum, in particular, holds significant potential for Nigeria. It is a versatile plant with various applications, including the production of glucose syrup for use in food, soft drink, confectionery, and pharmaceutical industries. Currently, only about 20% of the required glucose syrup is sourced locally, presenting an opportunity for local farmers to meet the domestic demand.
The RMRDC has conducted successful field trials of sugar beet in different states, including Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These trials have demonstrated the viability of sugar beet cultivation in Nigeria, and the council is actively collaborating with the Niger State Government and PASUA USA Agro Limited to develop the sugar beet value chain in the country.
Additionally, the RMRDC has established a sorbitol production pilot plant that utilizes cassava as the primary raw material. As Nigeria is one of the largest global producers of cassava, this initiative offers a valuable opportunity to leverage existing resources and boost the production of sorbitol, a key ingredient used in various industries such as toothpaste, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
The government's efforts to promote sweeteners production and encourage farmers to engage in commercial cultivation not only aim to reduce the cost of importation but also to position Nigeria as a major player in the global sweeteners market. The demand for sweeteners is projected to increase steadily, both domestically and internationally, presenting a significant opportunity for economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction in the country.
Farmers and potential investors interested in participating in these initiatives can access further information and guidance from the RMRDC's website and its offices located in Abuja and across the 36 states. The government's commitment to this project underscores its dedication to economic development and the harnessing of Nigeria's agricultural potential for the benefit of its people.
