BIP: Dangote Sugar Nurtures 7,000 Nigerian Youth Annually

Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) has been a significant driver of economic growth and employment in Numan, Adamawa State, employing no fewer than 7,000 workers annually through its Backward Integration Project (BIP).

The BIP project has not only served as a pivotal source of direct employment but has also generated opportunities for more than 7,000 youths during the peak of the production season. Notably, the Dangote Group holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s largest private sector employer, surpassing even government employment figures.

Bello Abdullahi Dan-Musa, the Group General Manager of Operations at Dangote Sugar Refinery, shared these insights during a media tour of the company’s facilities in Numan. He underscored the company’s commitment to the socio-economic development of the region and the nation as a whole. DSR’s impact on the local community and the broader Nigerian economy is exemplified by the significant number of jobs it creates and the positive ripple effects it produces.

The company’s commitment to supporting local farmers is evident in its payment of over N500 million to out-growers for the sugarcane they produce under the DSR Numan out-growers scheme. This initiative not only fosters local agriculture but also strengthens ties between the company and the communities in which it operates.

The growth trajectory of the DSR Numan refinery is equally impressive. The current capacity of 4,800 Tons of Cane Per Day (TCD) is slated for expansion to 6,000 TCD by the end of 2023, with further increases to 9,800 TCD by 2024 and a long-term goal of achieving 15,000 TCD. These expansions represent substantial investments in the local sugar industry and will significantly boost domestic sugar production.

Dan-Musa highlighted that the Dangote Sugar Refinery in Numan plays a pivotal role in realizing the Federal Government’s Backward Integration program, an initiative aimed at promoting local production and reducing the nation’s dependence on imports. In his words, “Dangote Sugar Refinery is Nigeria’s largest producer of household and commercial sugar.” The company’s contributions to domestic sugar production align with national goals of self-sufficiency and economic development.

Aliko Dangote, the President of the Dangote Group, has expressed his vision for the company’s impact on the Nigerian economy. He has stated that upon completion of the BIP projects, DSR will be able to create around three hundred thousand direct and indirect jobs, significantly benefiting the nation’s workforce. This vision reflects the positive multiplier effects that robust job creation can have on the broader economy.

In a reflection of its commitment to technological advancement and environmentally responsible practices, Dangote Sugar Refinery has undertaken an expansion drive that has achieved a significant milestone. The company has acquired state-of-the-art machines to support its production processes, reinforcing its dedication to modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly operations. This forward-looking approach not only enhances productivity but also minimizes the company’s ecological footprint.

An essential element of DSR’s Backward Integration initiative is to become a global force in sugar production by producing 1.5 million metric tons per annum (MT/PA) of refined sugar from locally grown sugarcane. This goal aligns with national objectives to reduce dependence on sugar imports, improve self-sufficiency, and foster growth in the sugar industry.

One notable aspect of DSR’s operations is its independent power system. This not only ensures consistent energy supply for the company but also generates excess energy that can be redirected to the national grid. The potential of this energy contribution to the national grid is substantial, with the capacity to significantly contribute to the rapid development of the entire Northeast region and drive accelerated industrialization.

The positive influence of DSR extends beyond its operational capacity. The Paramount Ruler of Bachama Kingdom in Adamawa state, Dr. Daniel Ismailia, expressed his appreciation for the company’s extensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities in the host communities. These activities have had a significant impact on the local population, helping to reduce criminal activities and improve the overall quality of life.

The Dangote Sugar Refinery has provided thousands of job opportunities for the people of Adamawa State and Nigeria, becoming a source of pride for the region. The benefits of these opportunities are not limited to job creation but also encompass various social and economic aspects that contribute to community development.

The Executive Director of Climate Africa Media Initiative and Centre (CAMIC), Mr. Aliu Akoshile, lauded the Hama Bachama for creating a peaceful environment conducive to business in his domain. This acknowledgment underscores the vital role of local leadership in fostering a supportive environment for commercial ventures.

The State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Ishaka Donald Dedan, expressed gratitude to the Paramount Ruler for his fatherly role and commended Dangote Sugar Refinery for its role in job creation. The positive impact on the local community and the state as a whole is evident, making the Adamawa people proud of the opportunities provided by the company.

In a broader context, Professor John Ngamsa of Modibbo Adama University, Yola, urged journalists to prioritize environmental journalism. He emphasized that the environment is humanity’s protective territory, making responsible and informed reporting on environmental matters of utmost importance.

The Dangote Sugar Refinery’s extensive employment opportunities, technological advancements, commitment to environmental sustainability, and contributions to local communities exemplify the potential for private sector enterprises to foster economic growth and social development in Nigeria. As the company continues its expansion and Backward Integration initiatives, its role in job creation, agricultural development, and environmental stewardship will become increasingly vital to the nation’s progress.