The Federal Government is targeting N3.9 trillion from the recently launched National Soybean Production Policy and Strategy alongside the Nigerian Soybean Partnership in a major push to transform the country’s agricultural secror
The initiative projected to create one million jobs across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory was unveiled at the Abuja Continental Hotel by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari in collaboration with Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia
Senator Kyari described the launch as a defining moment in Nigeria’s drive to ensure food security and achieve President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He noted that Nigeria currently produces around 1.35 million metric tonnes of soybeans annually, while demand exceeds 2.7 million metric tonnes.
“This gap is not just a challenge, it is a clear opportunity to expand production, enhance processing, and reduce reliance on imports,” Kyari said
Under the new policy, Nigeria plans to cultivate one million hectares of farmland and deliver an additional 460,000 metric tonnes of soybean within two years.
The Nigerian Soybean Partnership will bring together federal and state governments, private sector actors, farmer groups, and development partners to create a robust, integrated value chain.
Speaking on the partnership, Governor Alia, noted that Benue State is ready to spearhead the national effort
He highlighted the state’s longstanding engagement in soybean farming, tracing back to 1937.
“Benue currently contributes significantly to the national soybean output and cultivates a large share of Nigeria’s 780,000 hectares under soybean. But we are just getting started,” he said.
According to the Governor, the National Soybean Expansion Strategy is a bold, forward-looking partnership capable of reshaping rural economies, generating N3.9 trillion in revenue, and positioning Nigeria as a global agricultural leader.
‘’Benue’s seven-point commitment includes: seed and soil innovation, climate-smart mechanisation, expanded cultivation, improved processing and value addition and market access enhancement,’’ he stated
Governor Alia also revealed that the state’s Soybean Seed Multiplication and Distribution Programme will reach over 200,000 farmers in the next three years, aiming to boost yields from 1.2 to 3 metric tonnes per hectare.
Further plans, he said, include the Open Farmland Initiative, which will unlock 30,000 hectares through public-private partnerships, and the Benue Food City Complex, set to process at least 50,000 metric tonnes of soybeans annually.
The state also aims to more than double its output to over 400,000 tonnes within three years, with an expected 100,000 new jobs across the value chain.
