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Jannik Sinner has decided not to take part in this year’s Davis Cup Finals with reigning champions Italy confirming his absence in Monday’s team announcement, while world No 1 Carlos Alcaraz will represent Spain at next month’s competition.

Sinner, ranked No 2 in the world, led Italy to a successful defence of their title last year in Spain, but will not be on home soil when the Final 8 takes place in Bologna from November 18-23.

‘Jannik Sinner has not given his availability for 2025,’ Italian captain Filippo Volandri said.

A commercial motorcyclist was reportedly lynched and set ablaze by a mob in Gboko town, Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, after being wrongly accused of stealing a Bajaj motorcycle.

Witnesses said that the incident occurred at the weekend near War U Sarwuan area close to Tofi Grammar School, where the victim was allegedly mistaken for a motorcycle thief.

The witnesses said the commercial motorcyclist, popularly known as an Okada rider, was overtaken by the mob who were pursuing a thief.

He was said to have lost control of his motorcycle during a sharp turn while attempting to escape the mob, during which his passenger fled, leaving him behind with the bike.

A resident said that despite his pleas of innocence and presentation of identification, the mob attacked him, and one individual allegedly struck him with a stone before he was burnt to death.

However, shortly after the killing, the actual owner of the motorcycle arrived and confirmed that the victim was innocent, stating that the bike had only been purchased two weeks earlier.

He described the deceased as a responsible husband and father of three children.

The resident told our correspondent on the telephone that police operatives later evacuated the body around 10 pm.

Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, said she would check for reports on the incident and revert.

Edet had not yet reverted at the time of filing this report.

Benue State’s political landscape appears to be undergoing a seismic shift, one driven by Governor Hyacinth Alia’s determination to reshape the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and, by extension, the balance of power in the state.

Under his now popular mantra ‘No Alia, No Benue,’ the governor seems to be unveiling a new political order built on evolving strategies that could prove difficult for the old political guard to dismantle as the race toward the 2027 general election gathers momentum.

Before the 2023 elections that produced Alia as governor on the APC platform, the party’s political structure in Benue was firmly anchored around the influence of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, whose political machinery played a pivotal role in Alia’s emergence.

But soon after assuming office, the priest-turned-politician began charting his own course.

From his preferred choices for key positions, including the leadership of the State House of Assembly, members of the executive council, and later, the party’s executive committee, Alia moved swiftly to consolidate control of the APC’s political direction in the state.

The development has, however, split the party into two clear camps: one loyal to the SGF and another aligned with the governor. Efforts to reconcile both factions have repeatedly failed.

A house divided

The lingering crisis has deepened to the point where some analysts predict that the division could jeopardise Alia’s second-term prospects in 2027.

According to political analyst Ede Acheme, the APC’s continuous operation under two rival leaderships: one led by Comrade Austin Agada, who is loyal to Akume, and the other by Chief Benjamin Omale, who chairs the caretaker committee aligned with the governor, may make Alia to become the first governor of the state to fail a re-election bid since the state was created.

However, Alia’s supporters dismiss such concerns, arguing that the governor’s biggest political test lies in building a sustainable structure capable of guaranteeing his re-election despite the widening cracks within the APC.

Yohanna Luka, a resident of Wadata in Makurdi, remains sceptical. ‘If Alia, up till now, can’t subdue the ranks of the SGF, it would be difficult to concretise his structure before the 2027 election,’ he opined.

Alia’s counteroffensive

Determined to secure his footing, Governor Alia has in recent weeks taken steps to broaden his base by attracting new political allies and setting up ‘point men’ in all 23 local government areas, a move widely seen as part of his strategy to strengthen his political machinery ahead of 2027.

Fully aware of the task before him, Alia has adopted subtle but effective political manoeuvres, including quiet negotiations and tactical realignments, that are reshaping Benue’s political narrative.

One major turning point came in August when the Benue State House of Assembly witnessed a leadership change that many alleged was influenced by the governor, a development that weakened his opponents’ camp while bolstering his own.

Alia’s latest moves came to the fore during an ‘Evening of Fellowship and Dialogue’ last Friday, which analysts described as a strategic show of strength. The event, organised by the APC in honour of prominent Benue indigenes who had decided to join the party, was portrayed to underscore Alia’s growing influence and his bid to reposition the APC as the dominant force in the state.

Prominent figures who attended included House of Representatives member for Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, Ojema Ojotu; Benue Assembly member for Okpokwu Constituency, Andrew Agom; former NAFDAC Director-General Dr Paul Orhii; former governorship aspirant Prof. David Iornem; and former Benue PDP vice chairman Dr Cletus Tyokyaa, among others.

Speaking at the event, Alia said the gathering represented a renewed spirit of unity beyond party lines, noting that ‘Benue is rising again, and we are moving forward together. Beyond politics and beyond 2027, our focus remains service, development, and unity.’

The following day, at an extended APC caucus meeting in Makurdi, the governor welcomed additional defectors from the PDP, ADC, and Labour Party, declaring that the ‘overwhelming support’ from these figures underscored the positive direction of his administration.

During the caucus meeting, Alia unveiled 23 ‘head point men,’ one for each local government area, tasked with coordinating political activities and ensuring equitable distribution of government programmes. Each will work with four supporting point men at the local level.

The appointments, which complement the existing Gubernatorial Liaison Officers (GLOs) created in December 2024, mark a significant restructuring within the APC. Alia said the initiative was designed to address past lapses in governance benefits and strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of 2027.

He also inaugurated a reconciliation committee under the APC Elders Forum and Advisory Council to mend divisions and unify party members across factions.

Reactions and pushback

Predictably, Alia’s growing assertiveness has drawn mixed reactions. While his supporters view the moves as bold and necessary, critics argue that they are driven by desperation to usurp Akume’s long-standing influence.

Morgan Ihomun, the factional APC State Publicity Secretary loyal to the SGF, dismissed the fellowship and caucus meetings as ‘mere attempts to tap into Akume’s goodwill.’

He cited a statement issued by the Benue National Assembly Caucus, signed by House of Representatives member Philip Agbese, which reaffirmed Akume’s stature as the cornerstone of Benue’s political unity.

‘Senator Akume’s legacy as a unifier and champion of Benue’s interests is unmatched,’ Agbese stated, describing Alia’s gatherings as ‘desperate and dubious attempts to piggyback on Akume’s monumental goodwill.’

The caucus further declared that the loyalty of Benue people ‘lies with Akume, a leader who has consistently delivered for the state and with Tinubu, whose policies are reshaping Benue for the better.’

Meanwhile, the opposition PDP said it was unbothered by the defection of some of its members, insisting that every party experiences internal wrangling. PDP State Publicity Secretary Daniel Nyikwagh claimed that his party was also in advanced talks to receive two serving senators and several APC members into its fold.

Despite the controversy, Alia’s base remains energised. Social media supporters have hailed him as a ‘Talk and Do’ leader transforming Benue through courage and decisiveness.

For one such supporter, Patrick Apaa, ”Yes Father’ is not just a slogan, it’s a movement that cuts across youth, women, and the elderly. Alia is redefining governance in Benue like never before.’

Another, Solo Aba, wrote, ‘Building a strong state requires a man who is strong, focused, and bold. Our governor is such a man. Those who love Benue will surely join him.’

As the saying goes, ‘the die is cast.’ In Benue’s unfolding political drama, the coming months may finally reveal whether Governor Alia’s bold restructuring represents a decisive break from Akume’s shadow or merely the opening act in a longer supremacy battle within the state’s APC.

A luxury South Africa safari is the ultimate way to experience the breathtaking beauty and incredible wildlife of this captivating country. From lavish accommodations to unforgettable adventures, there are countless ways to indulge in the best that South Africa has to offer. In this article, we’ll explore seven extraordinary ways to make your safari experience truly unforgettable.

Indulge in Opulent Accommodations

When it comes to luxury safaris, your accommodations play a crucial role in setting the tone for your entire trip. Opt for lavish lodges or exclusive tented camps that offer unparalleled comfort, stunning views, and top-notch amenities. From private plunge pools to gourmet dining experiences, these accommodations will make you feel like royalty in the heart of the African wilderness.

Embark on Private Game Drives

One of the most exhilarating aspects of a safari is the opportunity to witness majestic wildlife up close. To elevate your experience, choose private game drives led by expert guides who can tailor the journey to your interests. With a dedicated vehicle and guide, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace and linger at sightings that captivate you the most.

Savor Gourmet Bush Dining

Dining in the African bush is an experience like no other. Imagine savoring gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs, served in stunning locations amidst the wilderness. From romantic candlelit dinners under the stars to lavish bush breakfasts overlooking the savanna, these culinary experiences will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories.

Indulge in Luxurious Spa Treatments

After a thrilling day of safari adventures, there’s no better way to unwind than with a pampering spa treatment. Many luxury lodges offer world-class spa facilities where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages, soothing facials, and other wellness treatments. Surrounded by the tranquility of the African bush, you’ll find yourself in a state of pure relaxation and bliss.

Witness the Big Five

No luxury South Africa safari is complete without encountering the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. With the guidance of skilled trackers and rangers, venture into the wilderness to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. The thrill of spotting a pride of lions or a herd of elephants is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Embark on Thrilling Adventures

While game drives are the cornerstone of any safari, luxury lodges often offer a range of additional activities to enhance your experience. From guided bush walks to hot air balloon rides over the savanna, these adventures provide unique perspectives and unforgettable thrills. For the more daring, some lodges even offer opportunities for close encounters with cheetahs or shark cage diving.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

A luxury safari is not just about wildlife; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. Many lodges offer cultural experiences that allow you to engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history. From visiting a Zulu village to participating in traditional dance performances, these experiences add a meaningful dimension to your safari adventure.

In conclusion, a luxury South Africa safari is an unparalleled way to discover the wonders of this magnificent country. By indulging in opulent accommodations, embarking on private game drives, savoring gourmet dining experiences, and immersing yourself in local culture, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of South Africa’s wilderness.

No fewer than 30 countries are set to converge at the 8th edition of the Agriculture Summit Africa (ASA) 2025 convened by Sterling Bank.

This year’s summit, themed: ‘Survival of the Greenest: Reclaiming Africa’s Food Destiny’ is scheduled to be held November 6-7, 2025 in Abuja.

Also, the summit is filled with policymakers, agribusiness leaders, investors, and innovators from across Africa and beyond to explore innovative solutions to the continent’s agricultural challenges.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Managing Director, Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, emphasised the bank’s purpose for convening the summit, saying it is aimed at examining how green finance, digital tools, and climate-smart practices can transform Africa into the world’s next agricultural powerhouse.

‘At Sterling, we believe Africa’s food future will be secured not by chance but by deliberate, collective effort.

‘Our commitment is rooted in the conviction that agriculture is central to Africa’s transformation, socially, economically, and environmentally. ASA 2025 is a platform that has galvanised this transformation by uniting policymakers, innovators, and investors around one shared goal: reclaiming Africa’s food destiny through sustainability and innovation,’ he said.

He added that Africa holds immense potential to become a global agricultural powerhouse, saying it has over 60 per cent of the world’s uncultivated arable land and a rapidly growing population.

However, he highlighted productivity challenges, limited access to finance, and the escalating impacts of climate change continue to hinder food security.

‘ASA 2025 will leverage multi-sector partnerships and policy alignment to accelerate the continent’s transition from dependence to self-sufficiency,’ he said.

The bank’s Group Head, Agric Finance and Solid Minerals, Olushola Obikanye described agriculture as not just an economic imperative but the heartbeat of Africa’s transformation.

‘Africa’s food future lies in sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. This year’s theme, ‘Survival of the Greenest,’ underscores both the urgency and the unique opportunity before us.

‘ASA provides a platform where governments, financiers, innovators, and farmers can engage meaningfully to design solutions that strengthen agricultural value chains, unlock financing, and foster inclusion,’ he added.

Workers of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have declared an indefinite strike over poor wages and the non-implementation of their Conditions of Service (CoS).

The industrial action, jointly declared by aviation unions, is expected to ground weather observation and reporting services critical to flight operations nationwide.

Daily Trust reports that NiMet plays a vital role in ensuring aviation safety through the provision of real-time weather information, meteorological briefings, and forecasts for airlines, pilots, airports, and Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs).

It would be recalled that the aviation unions embarked on strike in April, disrupting NIMET’s activities and flight operations across the country.

The strike was later suspended after the intervention of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

However, the workers are set to resume the strike on Thursday with some professional bodies, including Air Traffic Controllers and sister unions threatening to join the strike.

A Notice to All NiMet Workers dated October 17, 2025, and titled ‘Non-Implementation of Agreement – Withdrawal of Services,’ seen by our correspondent indicated that the strike was declared following several appeals to the management without positive outcomes.

The notice was jointly signed by Comrade Odinaka Igbokwe, General Secretary of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE); Comrade Alo Lawrence of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE); and Comrade Abdulrazaq Saidu of the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP).

The letter read in part: ‘Considering the extremely poor remuneration of NiMet workers compared to their counterparts in other aviation agencies, we are compelled to heed the cries of the workers for relief.

‘This decision was taken at the joint congress of workers held with the national secretaries of the unions on October 16, 2025, in Abuja. Accordingly, all NiMet workers are hereby directed to withdraw their services effective Thursday, October 23, 2025, unless otherwise directed by the unions following an amicable resolution of the issues.’

For years, Nigeria’s South-east has become an epicentre of violence linked to the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

IPOB is a group leading an agitation for an independent state of Biafra, which it wants carved out from the South-east and some parts of the South-south of Nigeria.

Its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is facing a terrorism trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Mr Kanu, a Nigerian-British citizen, was first arrested in 2015 under the administration of then-President Muhammadu Buhari.

The IPOB leader fled Nigeria in 2017 after Nigerian security forces invaded his family house in Afara-Ukwu, Abia State.

In June 2021, he was repatriated from Kenya to Nigeria under controversial circumstances.

The separatist group, in August 2021, declared a sit-at-home order to be observed every Monday across South-east and on other days, Mr Kanu appeared in court.

The illegal order was intended to protest Mr Kanu’s detention and pressure Nigeria’s government to release him.

After public outcry, IPOB suspended the sit-at-home order, but some factions of IPOB, particularly Autopilot IPOB led by Simon Ekpa, continued to enforce the illegal order.

Even after Mr Kanu wrote a letter, instructing Mr Ekpa to shelve the illegal order, the controversial Biafra agitator insisted that he would enforce the order.

Mr Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen, was recently jailed for terrorism in Finland.

Several people have been killed, abducted or injured by gunmen who enforce the illegal order across the south-east.

Goods and properties worth millions of naira have been razed by hoodlums enforcing the illegal order in the region.

PREMIUM TIMES has documented how the illegal order has been destroying businesses, frustrating farming activities and blocking residents’ access to healthcare services in the south-east.

Although the illegal order appears to have waned in some parts of the South-east, frequent attacks, killings and abductions are yet to end in the region.

The Kanu-led IPOB faction has continued to deny its involvement in the attacks, insisting that criminals carry out the attacks to blackmail the separatist group.

In this report, PREMIUM TIMES highlights some atrocities, killings and abductions linked to the group in the region.

Killing of Ahmed Gulak

On 30 May 2021, political adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan, was shot dead by gunmen in Owerri, Imo State while the politician was on his way to Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri, en route to Abuja.

The police in the state would later accuse members of the IPOB and its militant wing, ESN, of being responsible for the killing.

Killing of INEC official

Gunmen who claimed to be Biafra agitators made real their threats to disrupt elections in the South-east in 2023 when they killed Anthony Nwokorie, an INEC official who was carrying out Continuous Voter Registration exercise in Imo State, alongside others.

Mr Nwokorie was killed on 14 April 2022 when the gunmen attacked some INEC officials and intending registrants at Nkwo Ihitte (PU 004) in Amakohia Ward (RA 02) in Ihitte Uboma Local Government Area of the state.

Beheading of two soldiers

One of the most outrageous of the IPOB-linked atrocities in 2022 was the abduction of two soldiers – a man and a woman- who were traveling to Imo State for a planned marriage ceremony in May of that year.

The victims, A. M. Linus, said to be a Sergeant of the Nigerian Army, and his unidentified wife, said to be a lance corporal in the Army, were beheaded after being shot dead by the gunmen.

The hoodlums claimed in a viral video that they were uncomfortable with soldiers and other security operatives fighting Biafra agitators in the south-east.

Their corpses were dismembered by the gunmen. A gory image of their heads had gone viral on various social media platforms.

Beheading of a serving lawmaker in Anambra

On 21 May 2022, a serving lawmaker in Anambra House of Assembly, Okechukwu Okoye, was abducted and then beheaded by gunmen in Anambra State.

Mr Okoye, who was representing Aguata 2 Constituency in the assembly, was killed with his aide, Cyril Chiegboka, six days after they were abducted along Aguluzigbo Road, Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

Killing of traditional ruler

The traditional ruler of Obudi, Agwa, Ignatius Asor, was, on 14 November 2022, killed when suspected IPOB members invaded the community.

Obudi, Agwa is a community in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State.

Then-police spokesperson in the state, Michael Abattam, who confirmed this in a statement, said the slain monarch had allowed the terror group inside his palace after they disguised themselves as people in distress and had come to report an emergency to the royal father.

The suspected IPOB members also killed two aides of the monarch during the attack, the police had said.

Invasion of palace in Nigeria, killing of another traditional ruler

In July 2023, gunmen, suspected to be IPOB members, shot and killed Nnamdi Mmirioma, the traditional ruler of Ezuhu na Amadi Autonomous Community in Abor Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

The traditional ruler was shot dead by hoodlums who invaded his palace in the community.

Killing of DPO, police inspector

In November 2023, police in Imo State said some suspected IPOB members killed two police officers at Ahiara Junction in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of the state.

Killing of PDP House of Reps candidate

In February 2024, gunmen abducted and then killed a former House of Representatives candidate from Anambra State, Jude Oguejiofor.

Mr Oguejiofor, a lawyer, had contested for the Ihiala Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat in the 2023 general elections under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He was abducted around 1 a.m. two weeks earlier, alongside his brother, by the gunmen linked to IPOB.

The incident happened in the Orsumoghu Community, where they had gone to see their aged parents.

But his brother was released unhurt by the gunmen, who subsequently accused Mr Oguejiofor of writing petitions against them and their activities in the community.

Mr Oguejiofor’s father later fainted and died on 8 February that year when the gunmen contacted the family and informed them that they had killed the politician.

Killing of youths in Imo

In June 2024, gunmen wreaked havoc in the Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, where they killed six people.

The gunmen who carried out the attack were suspected to be IPOB members and its armed militant wing, ESN.

Attack on police facility

Within the same June 2024, gunmen attacked Ishieke Divisional Police Headquarters in the state.

The gunmen, suspected to be IPOB members, invaded the police facility at about 9:30 p.m. and started firing sporadic shots. Five of the gunmen were later confirmed killed by troops of the Nigerian Army who repelled the attack.

Killing of soldiers in Abia

On 30 May 2024, some gunmen, said to be IPOB members enforcing a sit-at-home order, killed about four soldiers in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State.

The governments of Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa States have entered into a partnership to establish a tri-state electricity market and co-invest in Future Energies Africa (FEA) which is the core investor in the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).

The agreement was sealed during a high-level electrification summit held in Marrakech, Morocco, from October 16 to 19, 2025, where the three governors Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano state, Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina state and Umar Namadi of Jigawa state met with top executives of FEA to chart a new course for regional power development.

A statement issued and signed by KEDCO’s Head Corporate Communication Sani Bala said, at the end of the summit, the states and FEA announced plans to establish a N50 billion tri-state electrification fund to drive large-scale investments in renewable and off-grid energy solutions across the three states.

He explained that the fund aims to accelerate access to reliable power through solar home systems, mini-grids, embedded generation, and grid extensions, focusing on underserved communities and productive sectors of the economy.

The statement further revealed that the governors also agreed that Kano and Katsina States would join Jigawa State in acquiring equity stakes in Future Energies Africa, a move expected to give the sub-national governments stronger influence in KEDCO’s operations and service delivery strategy adding that under the new structure, the states will collaborate closely with FEA to reduce power losses, enhance supply efficiency, and ensure that electricity services better meet the needs of households and businesses.

The states and FEA have agreed to convene quarterly meetings and an annual international retreat to review progress, set new targets, and sustain collaboration in building a stable and competitive Northwest power market.

It is believed that the deal could become a model for regional cooperation in electricity development, driving industrial growth and improving access to clean energy in Northern Nigeria.

Despite the Backward Integration to allow development and sourcing of raw sugar in Nigeria, major producers of refined sugar imported 953,971bn worth of raw sugar into the country to be processed for consumers.

Analysis of foreign trade statistics produced by the National Bureau of Statistics showed the product was imported from July 2024 to June 2025.

A breakdown showed that N156.752bn worth of the product was imported in the third quarter of 2024 (July to September) while N332.52tr worth of raw sugar was imported in the fourth quarter of 2024 (October to December).

For the first quarter of 2025 (January to March), N305.73bn of the product was imported and N158.95bn of the product was imported in the second quarter of 2025 (April to June).

Further breakdown showed N952.59bn of the commodity was imported from Brazil while N1.376bn was imported from the Netherlands.

Nigeria’s troubled sugar master plan

The Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP) was introduced in 2012 for local production of sweetener through sugarcane plantation and has grown steadily and billions of naira have been pumped into its backward integration policy (BIP) programme to establish farmlands that would supply feed for the growing sugar industry.

This has made the sector get billions of naira in annual incentives in the form of tax holidays, crop loans, tariffs, and regulated imports of foreign sugar, among others.

According to the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), these incentives were planned to grow sufficient sugar to satisfy the local demand and expand it into a foreign exchange earner and harness Nigeria’s sugarcane resources, creating jobs and a ready market through the value chain while bridging the country’s sugar demand at 1.53 million MT in 2020.

Under the initiative, local investors would make sizable investments in the industry within 10 years to guarantee self-sufficiency in the production of the sweetener and domestically produced extracts for their refineries.

Also, operators with backward integration plans were given import quotas to import raw sugar. The policy helped in attracting investments into the industry and has impacted production positively.

Nigeria’s sugar industry has expanded and continues to attract more investments as producers in the sector have vastly invested in cultivating large sugarcane plantations and building mills as stipulated in the policy.

According to the NSDC data, local production increased to 38,597 MT in 2019 from 6,843 MT when the country kick-started the backward integration programme for the sector.

This has allowed big millers such as Golden Sugar Company, BUA and Dangote Sugar to continue making huge investments across the value chains.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Services (FAS), Nigeria comes behind South Africa as the second largest market for sugarcane in sub-Saharan Africa while Nigeria produces less than five percent of the total consumed sugar.

Sugar refinery capacity in Nigeria is said to have increased from 2.75 million metric tons per annum in 2019 to 3.4 million metric tons per annum in 2020 but operating at less than 70 percent capacity.

Currently, there are only three players in the industry which are Golden Sugar Company, Dangote Sugar, and BUA.

The second phase of the NSMP to run through 2033 is being implemented where allocation of sugar import quota would be based on the extent of BIP performance in the preceding year, and no longer based on the refining capacity.

While demography and the rise of the food and beverage industry are two major factors driving sugar demand in Nigeria, the country’s sugar consumption is expected to decline this year owing to high import costs and weak consumer spending.

Increasing sugarcane cultivation

Smallholder farmers in major producing states have abandoned growing sugarcane to cultivate other crops of higher demand are now returning to the production of the commodity since the BIP was introduced in the sugarcane value chain.

While there is no recent data to show the marginal rise, the USDA projected the country’s 2024/2025 production output to remain unchanged at 1.7MMT owing to a lack of recent government support to increase local production.

Sugar imports on the rise

Despite increased investments in the sector, sugar imports have continued to make a steady increase.

Sugar is the second most agricultural import in Nigeria in terms of quantity after wheat, according to the Food and Agricultural Organisation.

It has a 2.1 percent ratio of production to demand, according to the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan.

And yearly, millions of dollars amid acute shortage are still spent on importing the sweetener yearly – a narrative BIP is to change.

Africa’s most populous nation still spent a whopping N517.8 billion in 2023 importing sugarcane amid acute FX shortage from N350.8 billion it spent in 2022 importing the commodity, data from Nigeria’s Foreign Trade Report shows.

‘Insecurity, preference for foreign products, others fuelling import’

Speaking with Daily Trust, an economist, Dr. Marcel Okeke, said the insecurity that has engulfed Nigeria is one of the major issues causing more import of raw sugar as farmers can’t have access to their farmlands.

He said the situation is exacerbated with Nigerians having taste for foreign products as well as the lack of infrastructure to make locally-manufactured goods cheaper.

He said, ‘Don’t you think that the places where sugar is supposed to be cultivated have a serious impact on this insecurity situation? The people who are supposed to be farming sugar, do you think the places are peaceful and the farmers are doing their job? That’s the main issue.

‘Then you start talking about the quality of what we get, the raw sugar cane or whatever we get locally versus what is imported because when it comes to local production and import, you can’t compare in terms of quality.

‘A lot of people that use sugar are already used to the importation of varieties or quality, so, when they are locally produced, they are likely to still prefer the ones that are imported.

‘But the major issue is that of local farmers. Are they settled where they are supposed to be settled to keep cultivating as many of them are dislodged and displaced? So, no matter what you see on paper or what the policy is, they have to settle down in their farms and their villages to continue to produce their sugarcane. If you know the locations, mainly up north, those people are badly affected. That’s the major point.

‘The other point is the preference for imported brands or quality of sugar. How do you see the commitment of local producers, manufacturers of this sugar? How do you see their commitment? They’ve been talking about backward integration and that they have integrated even in their plan and so on. How do you see their commitment? Once you are doing any manufacturing here, you are operating in a harsh environment.’

‘The environment is harsh because if you look at the infrastructure, for instance, let’s remove the issue of insecurity, which is a major one. Then you come to the infrastructure, you come to light, you come to water, you come to network of routes, how do you distribute what you produce, and so on and so forth.’

‘So when you factor all this, and the cost of money, if you want to raise money, because the government is playing very actively in the financial market, always raising money and all that. So they are kind of crowding out many private sector borrowers, and that is why the interest rate is very, very high. So when you look at all this in its totality, it doesn’t encourage any local production here, whether it’s sugar or whatever.’

‘So people who do anything here are not competitive. As a matter of fact, they put whatever will be cheaper when you factor in the cost of business here into whatever you are doing.

‘Even if you cross a border to Cotonou in Benin Republic, you will see that what you are getting from there is cheaper compared to what you get from local producers here. So what kind of commitment is that? So you can see that what is on paper, in terms of the intention of government by way of policy, is different from the reality.’

He restated that with the level of insecurity there is no way Nigeria can get its agriculture right.

He added, ‘That is why everything about agriculture is usually manifested whenever the president speaks, whether independence, democracy day or any occasion.

‘We just throw figures, throw a number of tractors and many billions spent here and there but what is the impact? Who is on ground to do those things and engage in serious agriculture?’

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has continued to position itself as a key driver of Nigeria’s industrial and technological transformation, aligning its operations with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Established in 1992 under the Presidency as the only purpose-built agency mandated to nurture an indigenous science and engineering infrastructure base for homegrown industrialization, NASENI is today delivering on its vision of transforming research into real products that create jobs and add value to the national economy.

Under the leadership of its Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Agency has been repositioned to serve as Nigeria’s foremost technology transfer and commercialization institution. Halilu, who assumed office in 2023, introduced the 3Cs framework -Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization – to guide NASENI’s operations.

Through this approach, the Agency has successfully transitioned from merely developing prototypes to producing and commercializing innovative products that are being deployed across key sectors of the economy.

In the last two years, NASENI has rolled out over 40 market-ready products including electric tricycles and motorcycles, solar power systems, lithium batteries, air conditioners, water dispensers and locally assembled laptops. These innovations demonstrate the Agency’s commitment to driving industrial growth through indigenous technology and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported goods.

One of NASENI’s notable achievements is the Tractor Recovery Project in partnership with the Mechanization Equipment Company of Africa (MECA). Through this project, over 375 abandoned tractors have been refurbished and returned to farms across Nigeria. The initiative, which was launched in Maiduguri and commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima, forms part of the National Asset Restoration Programme aimed at revitalizing agricultural mechanization and empowering local farmers.

Complementing this is the Irrigate Nigeria Project recently launched in Bauchi State, which is deploying NASENI-designed solar-powered irrigation pumps to enable year-round farming and boost food production. The project, which supports the government’s drive for food security, underscores NASENI’s role in applying technology to solve critical national challenges.

The Agency’s collaboration with TROMENT Nigeria Limited has also led to the establishment of the NASENI-TROMENT Biotechnology Factory in Abuja, the first indigenous facility for the local production of rapid diagnostic test kits for diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. This innovation represents a major step towards self-reliance in the health sector and aligns with national efforts to reduce the importation of medical consumables. Similarly, the partnership between NASENI and IMOSE Computers is deepening Nigeria’s digital inclusion through local production of laptops and smart devices that support learning, innovation and enterprise development.

NASENI has also initiated programmes to support young inventors and entrepreneurs through the Innovate Naija Challenge and the NASENI Research Commercialization Grant Programme (NRCGP). These initiatives are designed to identify, fund and scale up homegrown ideas that can be commercialized, helping to develop a new generation of Nigerian innovators and technology-based businesses. By creating opportunities for innovation to thrive, NASENI is building the foundation for a sustainable industrial future.

In renewable energy, the Agency has upgraded its Solar Energy Plant in Karshi, Abuja, from 7.5 megawatts to 50 megawatts, making it one of the largest solar panel manufacturing facilities in West Africa. This upgrade has expanded Nigeria’s capacity for solar energy production and supports the national agenda for cleaner, more sustainable power solutions. NASENI’s solar generators, streetlamps and lithium batteries are already being deployed in rural communities to improve access to electricity and enhance local productivity.

The Agency’s collaboration with Portland Gas Limited and Kia Motors has also resulted in the establishment of major Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion and training centers, producing indigenous CNG kits and training engineers to support Nigeria’s transition to greener transportation. These efforts are part of NASENI’s contribution to reducing energy costs and promoting environmental sustainability in line with the government’s energy transition policy.

Through its 11 development institutes located across the country, NASENI continues to build capacity and drive research in key areas such as engineering materials, electronics, agricultural machinery and advanced manufacturing technology. The Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Development Institute (AMEDI) in Lafia, Nasarawa State, for instance, is championing the introduction of soilless farming technologies and smart agricultural tools. Plans are already underway to establish five additional AMEDIs across the country to expand research and innovation in the agricultural sector.

NASENI’s impact also extends into ICT, education and defense. The Agency has developed drones for agricultural spraying and surveillance, supported local production of coal-based fertilizer through a partnership with Indonesia’s PT Saputra Global Harvest, and is currently constructing the Sustainable and Emerging Technologies Institute (SETI) at Bayero University, Kano, which will focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. In collaboration with the Abuja Technology Village, NASENI is also attracting investors to boost local manufacturing and technology transfer.

All these initiatives underscore NASENI’s new direction as an engine room for Nigeria’s industrial growth. The Agency is no longer just a research outfit but a catalyst for economic transformation, job creation and technological self-reliance. Its partnership-driven approach ensures that the private sector, academia and government agencies work together to turn research outputs into real products that impact lives and strengthen the economy.

As Nigeria aspires to become a global player in innovation and industrialization, NASENI stands at the heart of this national ambition. Its growing portfolio of successful projects and commercialized products demonstrates what is possible when vision meets innovation and when indigenous capacity is prioritized over foreign dependency. With its renewed energy, stronger partnerships and clear focus on delivering value, NASENI is setting a new standard on how public institutions can drive industrial and technological progress.