News in brief:
– Stakeholders advocate for policy reforms to enhance Nigeria’s soybean production and meet growing local and export demand.
– Private sector investments and government collaboration are crucial for overcoming challenges and increasing output.
With soybean production struggling to meet rising local and international demand, stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural sector have urged immediate reforms to boost output and reduce disruptions. The call comes as the country’s soybean consumption is estimated at 1.275 million tonnes, driven by food, animal feed, and export needs.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) global outlook, the soybean production forecast for 2025 has been lowered due to unfavourable weather conditions in major producing regions. Increasing demand—particularly for biofuel, animal feed, and food production—has outpaced supply, leading to significant price hikes.
Industry leaders emphasise increased production
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Federation of Agricultural Commodities of Nigeria (FACAN), Dr Victor Iyama, stressed the urgency of enhancing local production to support growing demands from the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries. He highlighted the importance of Nigerian farmers tapping into export opportunities and increasing cultivation beyond the 1.3 million-hectare target.
“With the right policies and support, we can significantly boost soybean production and improve Nigeria’s position in the global market,” Iyama stated.
He further emphasised that strengthening collaboration between the government and private sector is essential to overcoming industry challenges.
“The soybean sector has immense potential to contribute to the economy, and through collective efforts, we can ensure sustainable growth in production and exports,” he said.
Overcoming challenges in soybean production
Despite its potential, soybean farming in Nigeria faces numerous challenges, including high input costs, low yields, post-harvest losses, lack of capital, pest infestations, and limited market access. Farmers also struggle with inadequate technical knowledge, which affects productivity and profitability.
Dr Iyama noted that agriculture remains a key solution to Nigeria’s unemployment crisis, offering job opportunities across the value chain. He reiterated FACAN’s commitment to working with the government and private sector to train and support youth groups in soybean agribusiness.
Private sector interventions and investments
During a recent equipment donation event in Kwara State, the Managing Director of Olam Agri Nigeria, Anil Nair, underscored the importance of soybeans to Nigeria’s agricultural economy. He highlighted its critical role in food security, animal feed, and biofuel production.
“Initiatives like the Kwara State Soybean Sustainability Program and the donation of threshing machines are part of our strategy to empower farmers and strengthen local supply chains,” Nair said. He added that Olam Agri is committed to fostering a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria’s farmers.
Industry leaders insist that urgent policy reforms are needed to enhance production efficiency, lower costs, and increase Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global soybean market. By addressing key production constraints and improving market access, stakeholders believe Nigeria can increase soybean output, generate higher farm incomes, and improve national food security.
