Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, has commended the 14th Emir of Lafiagi, Mohammed Kawu, and the Lafiagi community in Kwara State, for sustaining peace and supporting the operations and growth of the Lafiagi Sugar Company (LASUCO).
Senator Enoh gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Emir’s palace, noting that LASUCO stands out among sugar projects nationwide for recording minimal community-related challenges.
According to the Minister, the people of Lafiagi have demonstrated a clear understanding of the economic and social benefits of hosting a large-scale agro-industrial project.
He paid homage to the monarch before proceeding to inspect the expansive BUA-owned sugar estate in Lafiagi, Kwara State.
The visit marked the commencement of a series of inspections of sugar estates across the country as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen the sugar industry and unlock its full potential.
Senator Enoh emphasised the critical role of traditional institutions and host communities in sustaining major agro-industrial investments, commending the Emir and residents for their continued cooperation.
“When we were planning this visit, I was asked at what point I wanted to pay this courtesy call. I said as a politician, when we go on campaigns to wherever, our first port of call is the traditional institution.
“This is even more important when I am visiting a farm that is owned by the community. So, first thing first, it was important to come and to let you know that I am in your community.
We have various sugar plantations across the country, but this is one place I have continued to hear very good commentaries about the support of the community to the project.
“I think every support you give, you are actually giving it to your own community. Because if the plantation works, the first group of people that will benefit are the Lafiagi people,” the Minister explained.
He said after nearly a year of engagements with stakeholders in the sugar sector, including the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) and operators, it was necessary to conduct on-the-ground assessments.
“I have spent about a year talking about sugar, having meetings with the Executive Secretary of NSDC and the management of various sugar companies. It was important to step out of Abuja and come to the farm to see things for myself, and my hope is that at the end of this visit, some milestones will be achieved,” he added.