Anthony Areh
The Federal Government has charged the new Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr Zach Adedeji, to work towards realisation of goals in the sugar sector of the economy.
Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment gave the charge while inaugurating Adedeji as the Chief Executive Officer of the council in Abuja.
Adebayo disclosed this in a statement on Sunday by his Special Assistant on media, Ifedayo Sayo.
He said the Federal Government relied on Adedeji to work assiduously towards realisation of Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in sugar production.
“You are therefore expected to discharge your duties in accordance with the rules and regulations as laid down in the Act establishing the council and other extant rules,” he said.
He urged him to create a good working relationship with his staff, board and management to ensure a successful execution of his mandate.
In response, Adedeji described Sugar as an important commodity in the global agricultural market, with an annual average production of 120.1 million tonnes and consumption of 118.1 million tonnes.
According to him, Sugar is produced under a broad range of climatic conditions in some 120 countries, and is one of the most heavily traded agricultural commodities.
“World sugar trade averages about 64 million tonnes per year and raw sugar accounts for around 60 per cent of internationally traded volumes.
“Our fundamental objective is to continue to work with relevant Ministries, Department and Agencies to provide desired support and interventions to achieve ultimate target of 1.8 million tonnes.
“Also, we will continue to welcome the support of our principals toward the vision of attaining sugar self-sufficiency,” he said.
Adedeji commended the erstwhile Executive Secretary of the council and management staff for the progress made in the implementation challenges in the sugar development industry.
He emphasised the need to swiftly address challenges to enhance justification to effectively reward non-performance amongst the operators.
