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Food supply

Nigeria Launches National Soybean Production and Expansion Policy and Strategy

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Nigerian government has launched the National Soybean Production and Expansion Policy and Strategy, aiming to unlock an estimated ₦3.9 trillion in annual industry revenue and create one million jobs across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The initiative is a pivotal element of the Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning agriculture at the heart of Nigeria's economic diversification and food sovereignty goals. The policy aims to boost soybean production, add value, and expand both domestic and export markets, with a cultivation target of one million hectares and 460,000 metric tonnes of soybean grains within two years.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Soybean Production and Expansion Policy and Strategy aims to unlock an estimated ₦3.9 trillion in annual industry revenue and create one million jobs across 22 states and the FCT.
  • The policy is a pivotal element of the Renewed Hope Agenda, positioning agriculture at the heart of Nigeria's economic diversification and food sovereignty goals.
  • The cultivation target is one million hectares and 460,000 metric tonnes of soybean grains within two years.
  • Nigeria currently produces around 1.35 million metric tonnes of soybeans annually, while demand exceeds 2.7 million metric tonnes.
  • Benue State has committed to doubling its soybean output from 202,000 metric tonnes to at least 400,000 metric tonnes within three years.
  • The state is positioning itself to contribute significantly to the national production goals and support Nigeria's ambition to build a ₦3.9 trillion soybean industry.
  • Benue has a leadership role in soybean cultivation, dating back to the 1930s, and is Nigeria's and Sub-Saharan Africa's top soybean producer.

Statistics:

  • Estimated annual industry revenue: ₦3.9 trillion
  • Number of jobs to be created: one million
  • Respective cultivation target: one million hectares and 460,000 metric tonnes of soybean grains within two years
  • Current soybean production: 1.35 million metric tonnes annually
  • Current demand: exceeds 2.7 million metric tonnes
  • Benue's target soybean output: 400,000 metric tonnes within three years
  • Benue's current soybean output: 202,000 metric tonnes

Sources:

  • (Voice of Nigeria) 12 August 2025
  • Renewed Hope Agenda
  • Nigerian Soybean Partnership
  • Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON
  • Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia

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