Local and foreign investors have the opportunity to invest in the cultivation and processing of sorghum in Sokoto State, situated in northern Nigeria.
Sorghum is one of the most important cereal crops grown in all local government areas of Sokoto State. The white coloured sorghum variety has been found to produce malt with colour and consistency of honey.
Sorghum cultivated in the state requires a minimum of 250 mm rainfall and responds well to N.P.K. fertiliser. Its yield varies from 500 to 1 500 kg/hectares. The average annual production of sorghum in Sokoto State is around 100,000 tonnes.
Investment opportunities exist in the establishment of a flour mill, starch production, sorghum malt production and the establishment of a feed mill.
Reasons to invest in Sokoto State
Availability of affordable labour: Sokoto State has an abundant supply of affordable skilled and unskilled labour.
Incentives: The Sokoto State Government is willing to extend a number of incentives to serious investors. These include the provision of land and infrastructure, tax holidays and assistance with obtaining financing.
Market: Nigeria, with its population of close to 150 million provides a massive market for agricultural produce. The country enjoys favourable trade arrangements with the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) region. Export opportunities to America and Europe also exist.
Stable political climate: Since its return to civilian rule in 1999 Nigeria has made significant gains in establishing democracy. Besides a few localised problems in the Niger Delta area, the country is safe and secure to do business.
For more information on this and other investment opportunities in Sokoto State please contact Dr Buhari Bello Kware, of the Sokoto State Investment Promotion Committee at bbkware@yahoo.com
