Most Nigerian states are agrarian and sugarcane farming and cultivating in Nigeria is as old as man.
Sugarcane, botanically known as Saccharum Officinarum can be grown in almost every Nigerian state as a result of Nigerian’s highly fertile soil.
However, when it comes to farming of sugarcane in commercial quantity, some Nigerian states especially the tropical regions tend to do better in sugarcane farming and production.
Hence, some Nigerian states takes the lead when it comes to sugarcane farming and production.
Nigeria’s sugar consumption is second largest in Africa. The country accounts for almost 50% of sugar consumed in Africa.
Nigeria also boost of over 2.1 million tons sugar refining capacity. However, in recent times, cultivation and production of sugarcane in Nigeria has suffered some serious setbacks and failings as a result of government inadequate support and legislation.
It is not ideal that the major sugar firms in Nigeria still rely majorly on foreign markets to source for their raw materials (brown sugar, sugarcane).
Despite the decline and drop in sugarcane farming and cultivation in Nigeria, some Nigerian states are still occupying top echelons in sugarcane farming in Nigeria.
These are state where sugarcane can be gotten at cheaper prices and in larger quantities.
Largest Sugarcane Producing States In Nigeria
While sugarcane can be grown in almost all nooks and crannies of Nigeria, the follow states are known for their lead and high sugarcane farming and production.
- Sokoto State
- Kebbi State
- Jigawa State
- Katsina State
- Taraba State
Other Nigerian states that farm and cultivates sugarcane in commercial quantity includes.
- Kano State
- Kaduna State
- Adamawa State
- Niger State
Factor Militating Against Commercial Growth Of Sugarcane In Nigeria
Inadequate government support and legislation
The government of Nigeria is yet to give sugarcane farming the attention it deserves just as in rice farming.
In Nigeria, almost every household makes use of sugar. Hence, it is one of the agricultural produce that should be well nurtured and managed.
Also, in as much as the sugar production firms can keep sourcing their raw materials abroad, sugarcane farming in Nigeria will continue to be endangered.
Non- Investment in sugarcane by private sector
Inadequate research to sugarcane farming and production
Herders and farmers conflicts in Nigeria