Lagos, Nigeria – At the landmark “Nigeria: NOW” conference hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), stakeholders unveiled a strategic plan to address Nigeria’s protein gap through expanded trade, technology transfer, and sustainable farming practices. With Nigeria’s protein consumption 25% below FAO recommendations, the initiative aims to boost nutrition and economic growth through soybean innovation.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
Protein Crisis: Nigerians consume just 45.4g protein/day (vs. 60g FAO minimum)
Trade Revival: Nigeria imported 62,100MT of U.S. soybeans in 2024 after 6-year hiatus
Poultry Focus: Soy-based feed to strengthen Nigeria’s $4.6B poultry industry
Notable Participants:
• Former President Olusegun Obasanjo
• Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde
• Lagos Agriculture Commissioner Abisola Olusanya
Why Soybeans Matter
Local Deficit: Nigeria produces 1.15MMT annually but demand far exceeds supply
Job Potential: Could create 500,000+ agri-processing jobs by 2030
U.S. Advantage: High-yield varieties use 40% less water than local crops
Statements That Defined the Event:
“This partnership isn’t about charity—it’s about building a protein-secure future through trade.”
— Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO
“Our farmers are ready to adopt technologies that produce more with less.”
— Robert Alpers, U.S. Soy Farmer
The Road Ahead
Tech Transfer: U.S. to train Nigerian farmers on climate-smart soy cultivation
Feed Industry Boost: Target 20% cost reduction for poultry producers
Policy Shift: States pledge land reforms for commercial soybean farming
