FG Unveils National Soybean Expansion Strategy to Create 1 Million Jobs, Generate N3.9 Trillion Annually

The Federal Government has launched a bold new initiative—the National Soybean Production and Expansion Policy and Strategy—aimed at transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape through large-scale soybean cultivation.

Under the theme “States’ Participation in National Soybean Expansion,” the strategy targets the cultivation of 1 million hectares of farmland and the production of 460,000 metric tonnes of soybean within two years. The plan is projected to generate N3.9 trillion annually and create 1 million jobs across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Speaking at the policy launch, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security described the initiative as a comprehensive roadmap to elevate soybean as a key crop for both local consumption and international markets. He emphasized that the strategy aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places agriculture at the heart of national development.

“This isn’t just another document—it’s a real commitment to food security, job creation, and economic resilience,” the minister stated. He added that success will depend on strong governance, collaboration across value chains, and enabling policies that support farmers, processors, and investors alike.

Benue State, Nigeria’s leading agricultural state, has pledged full commitment to the rollout. Calling the policy a “transformative milestone,” the Governor of Benue unveiled plans to support over 200,000 farmers through a Soybean Seed Multiplication and Distribution Programme over the next three years, increasing yields from 1.2 to 3 metric tonnes per hectare.

In partnership with research institutions and the private sector, Benue aims to double its soybean output from 202,000 to at least 400,000 tonnes, significantly contributing to the national target. The governor reaffirmed Benue’s role as the “food basket of the nation” and vowed to lead by example in executing the national policy.

“This is a call to action for all states. Let us move beyond policy documents and transform soybeans into a golden crop—one that secures our food systems, drives rural prosperity, and anchors national economic growth,” he said.

The strategy is expected to empower tens of thousands of farming households, boost agro-industrial investment, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global soybean market.