The Federal Government has launched a new policy aimed at boosting food security, reducing import dependence, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global soybean market. The plan is to cultivate one million hectares of farmland and produce 460,000 metric tonnes of soybeans within two years.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, announced this at the launch of the National Soybean Production Expansion Policy and Strategy in Abuja. He said the target is to deliver 460,000 metric tons of soybean grain to the market within two years.
Nigeria currently produces about 1.35 million metric tons of soybeans annually, but demand has surged beyond 2.7 million metric tons, driven by the expanding food, feed, and industrial sectors. The minister noted that this supply gap represents both a challenge and a significant opportunity to expand production, strengthen processing capacity, and create jobs.
Key Highlights of the Policy:
- Cultivation of 1 million hectares of farmland: The government aims to cultivate one million hectares of farmland to increase soybean production.
- Production of 460,000 metric tonnes of soybeans: The target is to produce 460,000 metric tonnes of soybeans within two years.
- Creation of jobs: The policy aims to create one million jobs across 22 states and the FCT.
- Revenue generation: The policy is expected to generate
N3.9 trillion in annual revenue. - Improvement of household diets: Soybeans are a nutritional powerhouse, containing about 40% high-quality protein and essential amino acids, making them crucial in the fight against malnutrition and in improving household diets.
The minister emphasized that achieving these ambitious targets requires more than just plans; it demands deliberate and collaborative execution. He stressed that the role of government is to create an enabling environment for growth through supportive policies, strategic collaboration, and targeted interventions.
Benue State to Play a Key Role
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, described the policy launch as a national transformation that promises prosperity, resilience, and hope for millions. He noted that Benue will play a key role in the policy, with a target to double soybean output from 202,000 to at least 400,000 tons in three years.
The governor said over 200,000 farmers will be reached in the next three years with high-yielding, disease-resistant seeds, and that the state will contribute more than 400,000 metric tons to national production annually. He also said the state will generate billions in new revenue and support Nigeria’s N3.9 trillion industry target.
The policy launch marks a significant step towards achieving food security, reducing import dependence, and positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global soybean market.
Nice report