President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration’s agricultural reforms will lead to food security, eradicate poverty, and end hunger in the country. He emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming the livestock sector into a hub of economic opportunity, curbing farmer-herder conflicts, and fostering international investment.
Speaking in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu announced a $2.5 billion partnership with JBS S.A., a leading global meat-processing company. Under the agreement, JBS will construct six factories in Nigeria—three for poultry, two for beef, and one for pork—while the government ensures favorable regulatory and economic conditions for the project. The five-year plan includes feasibility studies and local supply chain development.
Highlighting the importance of this partnership, Tinubu said, “We are turning tragedy and hopelessness into economic opportunity. This investment will tackle hunger, create jobs, and establish Nigeria as a key player in global food security.” He encouraged JBS to leverage Nigeria’s vast population and resources for mutual benefit.
The deal follows an extensive study tour of Brazil by a Nigerian delegation led by Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Mahia. The delegation chose JBS due to its scale, advanced technology, and zero-waste practices. JBS processes 33,000 cattle and over eight million birds daily, employing over 200,000 people across more than 50 countries.
Wesley Batista, President of JBS, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Nigeria has the potential to become Africa’s protein supply center. We look forward to expanding our operations in the region.”
Separately, Finance Minister Wale Edun highlighted the economic gains of recent reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of exchange rates. These measures have saved Nigeria $20 billion—equivalent to 5% of its GDP—funds now redirected to critical sectors like infrastructure, health, and education.
Edun praised the shift from a rent-seeking economy to one driven by enterprise and innovation, urging citizens to explore opportunities in agriculture and export-oriented industries. He lauded ongoing efforts to modernize the civil service, which he described as essential to sustaining the administration’s macroeconomic reforms.
Head of Civil Service Esther Walson-Jack also unveiled transformative policies aimed at enhancing public service delivery, ensuring professionalism, and improving efficiency within the federal workforce.
