The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a strategic partnership with Brazilian livestock company JBJ Brazil to establish a 100,000-hectare cattle ranch in Niger State. This initiative aims to house 100,000 bulls and significantly boost livestock production in the country.
The Minister of Livestock Development, Malam Idi Mukhtar, disclosed this development during a visit to Governor Umaru Bago in Minna. He highlighted that the ranch is part of a broader $2.5 billion livestock investment agreement with JBJ Brazil, strategically leveraging Niger State’s abundant water resources and favorable climate.
Brazil is one of the leading countries in cattle production. It has the second-largest cattle herd in the world after India and is the top exporter of beef globally. The country’s vast land area, favorable climate, and advanced livestock management practices have made it a powerhouse in cattle ranching and beef production. Brazilian companies like JBS S.A. is one of the world’s largest meat processing companies, play a major role in the industry, driving innovation and global supply.
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Governor Bago, represented by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, expressed optimism about the project’s potential to harness the state’s natural resources and advance livestock development. He assured that the state is well-prepared to support the project and maximize its economic potential.
The Niger State Government has pledged 1.2 million hectares of land to support this livestock development initiative, with 100,000 hectares specifically earmarked for the ranch. This commitment underscores the state’s dedication to transforming its agricultural landscape and fostering economic growth.
Financial negotiations with JBJ Brazil and other investors are ongoing. Sammy Adigun, Chairman of Niger Foods, confirmed that Brazilian firms JBJ Brazil and JBS would play integral roles in the project, with the Federal Government facilitating their operations in animal production and processing. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to modernize Nigeria’s livestock sector.
The project is expected to enhance local meat production, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activities in Niger State, marking a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. The involvement of one of the world’s largest protein companies is anticipated to bring about the exchange of knowledge and expertise, further boosting the success of the initiative.
This collaboration is part of a series of agreements between Nigeria and Brazil aimed at advancing agribusiness and livestock development across the country. In a related development, the Federal Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV) to boost fertilizer production, hybrid seed technology, and agricultural finance, projecting to attract $4.3 billion in private-sector investment.
These initiatives reflect Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships to enhance food security, modernize agriculture, and drive economic growth