Flour Mills of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s drive toward sugar self-sufficiency, as government officials intensify efforts to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports.

The renewed commitment follows a visit by John Enoh to the Sunti Golden Sugar Estate in Niger State, a major project operated by Golden Sugar Company. The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to advance the National Sugar Master Plan and the Backward Integration Programme, both aimed at strengthening domestic sugar production and improving value chain development.

The Sunti estate has been a key contributor to Nigeria’s sugar strategy since 2012 and is considered one of the largest private sector investments in the industry. During the visit, officials highlighted its role in driving industrial agriculture, job creation, and rural development. At peak periods, the estate employs up to 4,500 workers, supporting livelihoods and local economic activity.

Expanding sugarcane cultivation remains a central focus, with government emphasising the need to increase output and improve processing capacity. This is seen as essential to meeting national sugar demand and reducing the country’s heavy dependence on imports.

Beyond production, the project has also contributed to community development in surrounding areas, supporting infrastructure such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, water supply, and rural electrification. These initiatives align with broader goals of inclusive economic growth and rural transformation.

Flour Mills of Nigeria has indicated that it will continue investing in the sector while strengthening partnerships with government stakeholders to accelerate progress. The visit also included the launch of a training centre aimed at improving technical skills and building local capacity within the sugar industry.

Overall, the renewed collaboration between government and the private sector signals a stronger push toward achieving sugar self-sufficiency, positioning the sector as a key contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural growth and economic diversification.