The Nasarawa State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI) has entered into a partnership with Dangote Industries Limited to explore new investment opportunities and boost industrial development in the state. The collaboration aims to support small-scale industries, create jobs, and unlock the state’s economic potential through skills development and raw material processing.
In a statement issued by Dangote Industries Limited on Sunday, the company confirmed that its large-scale sugar project in Tunga, known as the Dangote Nasarawa Sugar Company Limited, is one of the largest Backward Integration Policy (BIP) investments in Nigeria’s sugar sector. The project spans 68,000 hectares, making it a key player in the country’s efforts to reduce sugar importation and promote self-sufficiency.
Speaking during the 2025 Nasarawa Trade Fair and Exhibition (NASTFE) in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, Nidan Manasseh, Chairman of NASSI in the state, said the trade fair provided a platform to deepen collaboration between small-scale industrialists and Dangote Group. He praised the conglomerate for its continued support and interest in grassroots economic development.
“We are actively exploring opportunities to expand our collaboration with the Dangote Group, especially in the areas of youth and women empowerment through skills acquisition programmes and other support services,” Manasseh said.
He described Dangote’s support of NASSI’s activities as exceptional, particularly its financial sponsorship of various programmes. According to him, the company’s involvement is not only beneficial for small-scale industries but also essential for broader state economic development.
Manasseh highlighted that the trade fair is a key driver of economic transformation in Nasarawa State and aligns directly with the vision of Governor Abdullahi Sule, who has continued to promote industrial growth and a business-friendly environment.
He added that the trade fair was designed to attract investors by showcasing the state’s rich mineral resources and human capital. Nasarawa is known for its deposits of solid minerals, including barite, tin, and limestone, which offer massive opportunities for small-scale industries, especially in raw material processing and local manufacturing.
“This exhibition presents Nasarawa as a prime investment destination. We are sending a clear message to the world that the state is open for business, with a government that supports value addition and inclusive economic growth,” Manasseh added.
He noted that NASSI’s focus is on leveraging these natural resources to promote value addition, enhance economic output, and generate employment. According to him, this approach will reduce poverty and drive sustainable development across the state.
Dangote Industries also reaffirmed its commitment to Nasarawa’s economic future, noting that the Dangote Nasarawa Sugar Company would become one of Africa’s largest sugar investments once completed. The company said the investment is central to its national strategy and will play a key role in Nigeria’s industrial growth.
