In a major push to transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, Benue State has unveiled an ambitious plan to double its annual soyabean production from 202,000 to at least 400,000 metric tons over the next three years.
Governor Rev. Fr. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia announced the target on Tuesday during the official launch of the National Soyabean Production Expansion Policy and Strategy at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Describing Benue as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s soyabean value chain, Governor Alia said the state is taking a lead role in the federal government’s new strategy aimed at generating N3.9 trillion in annual revenue, creating one million jobs across 22 states and the FCT, and positioning Nigeria as a dominant force in global agriculture.
“Benue has consistently led Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa in soyabean production, cultivating a substantial portion of the country’s 780,000 hectares and significantly contributing to the current 758,000 metric tons produced annually,” Governor Alia noted.
He revealed that the state, through the Benue Agricultural Development Company and key partnerships, has deployed extension officers, launched mechanization clusters across 15 local government areas, and is training farmers in best practices and climate-smart agriculture.
“Our goal is to contribute over 400,000 metric tons to national production yearly, generate billions in new revenue, empower thousands of households, and establish a sustainable agricultural legacy,” Alia stated.
The Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, commended the initiative, urging agriculture commissioners nationwide to align with the soyabean expansion strategy with a sense of urgency and unity.
He applauded Governor Alia’s leadership and coordination, emphasizing Benue’s strategic importance in achieving the nation’s agricultural and economic goals.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Terhemen Kpenkaan, Chairman of the Forum of State Investment Promotion Agencies of Nigeria (FoSIPAN), pledged the forum’s full support for the national strategy. He assured stakeholders of efforts to de-risk agribusiness and attract investment into the sector.
The event culminated in the formal unveiling of the National Soyabean Production Policy and Strategy, built on seven strategic pillars aimed at transforming Nigeria into a global player in the soyabean industry.
