President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on JBS S.A., one of the world’s largest meat processing companies, to invest in Nigeria’s livestock sector as part of efforts to address hunger and promote economic growth in the country.
Speaking on Thursday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian Government and JBS S.A., Tinubu emphasized his administration’s focus on attracting both local and international investments into the agricultural value chain.
“There’s hunger in Nigeria right now, but there’s also hope. You, JBS, represent part of that hope,” Tinubu told JBS executives. He highlighted the $2.5 billion investment potential in Nigeria’s livestock industry, citing the country’s vast population and untapped opportunities in meat processing and food security.
The President assured JBS of favorable business conditions and a strong return on investment. “We’ve heard much about your reputation, and we believe in this partnership,” Tinubu said, noting that the collaboration could help end farmer-herder conflicts, eradicate poverty, and ensure food security.
The engagement followed a study tour by Nigerian officials and private sector representatives in Sao Paulo to explore Brazil’s advanced livestock development practices. According to the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muhktar Mahia, the delegation chose JBS S.A. for its global reach, innovative zero-waste practices, and ability to process massive volumes of cattle and poultry daily.
JBS S.A. President Wesley Batista expressed optimism about the partnership, saying, “We see Nigeria as a strategic hub for supplying protein to Africa. We look forward to starting this collaboration soon.”
The Nigerian delegation included the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; Co-chair of the Presidential Livestock Reform Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega; and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, Aisha Rimi.
The partnership marks a significant step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s livestock sector, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable economic development.
