Nigeria Signs $2.5 Billion Livestock Deal With Brazil’s JBS
Global meat processing giant plans rapid expansion into Nigerian market as government seeks to transform farmer-herder conflicts into economic opportunities
President Bola Tinubu has sealed a landmark deal with JBS S.A., one of the world’s largest meat processing companies, during a ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Thursday. The partnership aims to transform Nigeria’s $2.5 billion livestock sector while addressing long-standing farmer-herder conflicts that have plagued the nation.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized the administration’s strategic approach to turning historical challenges into economic opportunities. “What we are doing right now is that we are solving a problem that afflicted humanity in that part of Africa, clashes between farmers and migrating cows that have caused some life and bloodshed when there is a modern, civilized way to solve those problems and even bring a successful economy out of it,” he stated.
Modernizing Nigeria’s Livestock Industry
The collaboration with JBS S.A. comes as part of a broader initiative that saw Nigerian officials and private sector representatives conducting extensive studies in São Paulo during the G20 Leaders’ Summit. The delegation explored opportunities in livestock development, meat processing, and seed development for key grains, leading to the selection of JBS as a strategic partner.
Economic Impact
The partnership stands to reshape Nigeria’s meat processing capabilities, opening new employment opportunities and positioning the country to become Africa’s leading protein supplier. With JBS’s advanced technology and zero-waste practices, the partnership could revolutionize local meat processing methods, boost export capabilities, and significantly reduce post-harvest losses.
“We are glad to work with Nigeria to develop the livestock industry there. We think it’s a good opportunity for our business in Nigeria and Africa as we believe Nigeria can be the center of supply of protein to many countries in Africa,” Batista said, expressing the company’s eagerness to begin operations in Nigeria “as soon as possible.”
Minister of Livestock Development Idi Muhktar Mahia, who led the Nigerian delegation, explained that JBS was selected after extensive evaluation of various global companies, citing their scale, integrated operations, and advanced technology deployment. The company’s presence spans major markets including the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
The initiative represents an important step in Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts, moving away from oil dependency. With its vast grazing lands and substantial cattle population, the country aims to establish itself as a major player in the global livestock industry while simultaneously addressing food security concerns.
President Tinubu acknowledged current challenges but expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential. “Food security is extremely important. As we talk right now, there is hunger. However, there is huge hope. And you are one of those hopes that we are looking at,” he told the JBS executives, assuring them of positive returns on their investment in Nigeria.
