The Association of Sugarcane Dealers in Bauchi State has said that the sugarcane to be sold between September 2023 and February is estimated to be worth N700 Million.
Specifically, Adamu Musa, Chairman of the association, during an interview with the press on Monday in Bauchi, said the Sugarcane market takes goods worth N5 million daily which are supplied from various local government councils and states in the country.
According to him, the harvest season for sugarcane commences from September to February annually.
He further explained that activities of farming were conducted within 10 months, commencing with bush clearing to harvesting.
In his words: “The market empowers more than 5000 people ranging from the dealers to traders.
“Over 2000 people are known to cut sugarcane for retailers, while others are either involved in sanitation activities or hiring wheelbarrows among others.
“The major suppliers of sugarcane in Bauchi are mostly in Bauchi, Alkaleri, and Kirfi Local Government Areas.
“We get supplies of the goods mostly from Bauchi, Alkaleri and Kirfi, Tafawa Balewa, Darazo, Giade, Ganjuwa, and Zaki Local Government Areas,” he explained.
Speaking of the refuse dump, the chairman said that the management introduced the incinerator system for disposing waste to curb air pollution and other hazards to residents.
He said that researchers and investors visit the market to collate end products for their various work.
Mr Musa explained that local producers of mattresses and pillows also get their resources from the daily market.
“And some for their seedlings in preparation for next farming activities,” he added.
The chairman acknowledged the support of the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency and the revenue authorities for the harmonious working relationship.
He called on the Bauchi State Government to assist the market in its various infrastructure development, which would contribute to diversifying the state economy and revenue generation.
He also appealed to the state government to consider the market in its palliative and other intervention programs, to reduce the economic challenges experienced as a result of fuel subsidy removal.
