President Bola Tinubu has emphasized his administration’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector by attracting both international and domestic investments into the livestock industry. This initiative, according to the President, aims to resolve the persistent farmer-herder clashes, alleviate hunger, reduce poverty, and stimulate economic prosperity throughout the nation.
Speaking in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, President Tinubu underscored this vision during a historic signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian Government and JBS S.A., one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the world. "We are addressing a long-standing issue—conflicts between farmers and migrating livestock that have led to loss of lives—by turning a tragic challenge into a source of economic potential," President Tinubu stated, highlighting his administration's focus on practical solutions that also promise economic gains.
He encouraged JBS S.A. to explore the vast $2.5 billion investment potential in Nigeria's livestock sector, emphasizing the country’s vast population and agricultural opportunities. "We've heard a great deal about your reputation, and we believe in the partnership we are forming today," the President said. He assured the executives of JBS S.A. of favorable conditions for business, asserting that Nigeria is prepared to offer substantial returns on investment.
President Tinubu's visit to Brazil followed a strategic mission by a Nigerian delegation, including officials and private sector representatives, to explore the Latin American country’s livestock and agricultural sectors. This delegation, led by the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Mahia, took part in comprehensive tours of leading companies, focusing on advanced technology and sustainable practices.
JBS S.A. was selected as Nigeria’s key partner in this ambitious endeavor. The company, known for its advanced zero-waste processing techniques, handles an impressive volume—processing 33,000 cattle and over eight million birds daily. Its global operations employ more than 200,000 individuals across 50 countries, making it an ideal partner for Nigeria's livestock development goals.
Wesley Batista, Founder and President of JBS S.A., expressed optimism about the partnership, recognizing Nigeria’s potential as a future hub for protein supply in Africa. “We see Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s food security landscape,” Batista said, committing to swift engagement in Nigeria’s livestock sector.
Accompanying the Nigerian delegation were Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Hon. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Professor Attahiru Jega, Co-Chair of the Presidential Livestock Reform Committee, Professor Mohammed Kuta Yahya, Secretary of the Committee, and Aisha Rimi, CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council.
This collaboration, spearheaded by President Tinubu, signals a transformative shift in Nigeria’s agricultural policy, aimed at not only resolving local conflicts but also positioning the country as a major player in the global food industry.
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