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FG Targets 1 Million Hectares and 460,000 Tonnes of Soybean Output in Two Years

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 23rd, 2025.

FG Targets 1 Million Hectares and 460,000 Tonnes of Soybean Output in Two Years

The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to cultivate one million hectares of farmland and produce 460,000 metric tonnes of soybeans within two years. The initiative aims to enhance food security, reduce reliance on imports, and position Nigeria as a global contender in soybean production.

Speaking at the launch of the National Soybean Production Expansion Policy and Strategy in Abuja, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, emphasized that this is not just a policy announcement—it is a decisive step toward building a food-secure and globally competitive agricultural economy.

“Our goal is to bring one million hectares under cultivation and produce 460,000 metric tonnes of soybeans in two years,” Kyari said.

He pointed out that Nigeria currently produces around 1.35 million metric tonnes of soybeans annually, far short of the nation’s demand, which exceeds 2.7 million tonnes. The growing needs of the food processing, livestock feed, and industrial sectors have widened this gap.

“This deficit presents both a challenge and an opportunity,” the minister noted. “It’s a call to boost production, enhance processing capacity, and create employment.”

Kyari highlighted the nutritional value of soybeans, which are rich in protein—containing about 40% high-quality protein and essential amino acids—making them critical in the fight against malnutrition.

“Nigeria’s soybeans are naturally non-GMO, giving us an edge in premium global markets where non-GMO products are in demand,” he added.

He also explained that soybeans play a crucial role in domestic industries, especially in animal feed production. About one-third of local soybean output is used in poultry feed, where it makes up 20–25% of the mix.

“By increasing domestic production, we’ll cut back on feed ingredient imports, strengthen our poultry and aquaculture sectors, and build a self-sufficient food system that also taps into export markets,” Kyari said.

He stressed that achieving these goals would require more than just intentions—it demands coordinated action and policy support.

“This will require effective collaboration, strong governance, and strategic interventions. Our role as government is to build a supportive environment that makes the soybean value chain more efficient and competitive,” he stated.

Benue State Leads with Bold Commitments

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia also spoke at the event, describing the launch as a pivotal moment for agricultural transformation and national prosperity. He revealed that the national strategy aims to generate over ₦3.9 trillion in revenue, create one million jobs across 22 states and the FCT, and turn Nigeria into a major agricultural force.

Calling Benue the “cornerstone” of this vision, Alia highlighted the state’s long history of soybean farming—dating back to the 1930s—and its current leadership in production.

“Benue pioneered soybean cultivation in Nigeria and continues to be a leader. We currently manage a significant portion of the nation’s 780,000 hectares and contribute heavily to the 758,000 tonnes produced each year,” he said.

He announced that Benue plans to double its annual output from 202,000 to at least 400,000 tonnes in the next three years.

“This expansion will generate billions in revenue, help meet national targets, empower thousands of households, and build a sustainable future for agriculture in our state,” Alia explained.

He said the state will engage over 200,000 farmers with improved, high-yield, disease-resistant soybean seeds. The expected yield increase—from 1.2 to 3 metric tonnes per hectare—will be supported by mechanisation clusters, extension services, and climate-smart training.

Benue also plans to open up 30,000 new hectares for soybean farming through public-private partnerships, backed by attractive incentives to drive commercial production.

“Our land aggregation model, powered by private investment and secure land access, will unlock large-scale farming opportunities,” Alia said.

The governor also announced the establishment of the Benue Food City Complex, which will process over 50,000 tonnes of soybeans annually. The state will invest in silos and aggregation centers equipped with digital tracking systems to reduce post-harvest losses and stabilize market prices.

“We’re also developing infrastructure to support exports—including quality certification systems and trade partnerships—to access regional and BRICS+ markets,” he added.

Alia estimated the initiative would create over 100,000 jobs across farming, processing, logistics, and trade.

“Our young and dynamic population will be central to this growth. Farmers can expect net earnings of nearly ₦40,000 per hectare. This is not just agriculture—it’s a pathway to prosperity,” he said.