President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria’s BUA Group and leading UAE firms for large-scale sugar refining and integrated logistics infrastructure, describing the partnership as a “powerful demonstration of deepening Nigeria-UAE economic cooperation and shared prosperity.”
The MoU was signed on Thursday, February 13, 2026, during the President’s ongoing working visit to the United Arab Emirates. The agreement involves BUA Group partnering with major UAE-based entities in the sugar and logistics sectors to establish one of West Africa’s largest sugar refining complexes and modern logistics hubs in Nigeria.
Key Highlights of the MoU
Sugar Refining: Construction of a state-of-the-art sugar refinery with an initial capacity of 1 million metric tonnes per annum (expandable to 2 million tonnes), aimed at reducing Nigeria’s massive sugar import bill (currently over $1 billion annually).
Logistics & Supply Chain: Development of integrated port, rail and warehousing facilities to support efficient movement of raw sugar, refined products and other commodities.
Job Creation: Projected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, particularly in rural sugarcane farming communities.
Investment Value: Estimated at over $1.5 billion in the first phase, with phased implementation starting in 2026.
President Tinubu, speaking after witnessing the signing ceremony, said: “This partnership is a shining example of what can be achieved when visionary private sector leaders from Nigeria and the UAE come together. BUA Group has shown leadership in agriculture and industry, and the UAE has proven to be a reliable partner in infrastructure and investment. Together we will reduce import dependence, create jobs, empower farmers and strengthen food security.”
The President also used the opportunity to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to attracting high-impact foreign direct investment through policy reforms, improved ease of doing business, and strategic bilateral engagements.
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BUA Group Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu described the MoU as “a game-changer for Nigeria’s sugar value chain and logistics sector,” adding that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and will significantly cut Nigeria’s reliance on imported refined sugar.
UAE officials expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting the strategic importance of Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy and a gateway to West Africa.
The agreement is part of a broader set of bilateral deals signed during the President’s UAE visit, focusing on energy, agriculture, infrastructure and technology.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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