JBS, the world’s largest protein producer, has announced plans to invest $2.5 billion in Nigeria’s livestock sector, with Ogun State identified as a key investment hub.
The investment, set to span five years, aims to boost meat production, modernize processing facilities, and strengthen the country’s agricultural value chain.
The Controlling Shareholder of JBS, Wesley Batista, disclosed this during a visit to Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Batista, who was accompanied by EMN’s Controlling Shareholder, John Coumantaros, highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential and vast agricultural resources, stating that JBS is committed to developing large-scale beef, poultry, and pork production in the country.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s population size and growing demand for protein make it a prime location for expansion, adding that JBS’s expertise would revolutionize the sector.
JBS, a global agribusiness giant with operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and Europe, processes over 80,000 heads of cattle, 15 million chickens, and 25,000 lambs daily.
The company also produces packaged meat products and has interests in energy, banking, and manufacturing. With its extensive experience, JBS is looking to introduce modern livestock facilities in Nigeria, increasing productivity and improving supply chains.
Governor Abiodun welcomed the investment, reaffirming Ogun State’s position as Nigeria’s top investment destination.
He cited the state’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and agro-focused airport as key factors that make it an ideal hub for agribusiness. He assured investors of a seamless land acquisition process and enhanced security measures to support business operations.
He also pledged his administration’s commitment to food security, stating that efforts would be intensified to reduce food scarcity and inflation while working with President Bola Tinubu’s government to strengthen the agricultural sector.
John Coumantaros commended Ogun State for its business-friendly policies and infrastructure development, noting that JBS’s entry into Nigeria would lead to the establishment of modern slaughterhouses, piggery and poultry farms, and large-scale feed production.
He emphasized that the investment would create jobs, boost local meat production, and position Nigeria as a major player in Africa’s livestock industry.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Aisha Rimi, confirmed that JBS had conducted technical assessments in Ogun and other states, with plans for large-scale operations.
She stated that the investment would drive significant growth in Nigeria’s livestock sector, enhance protein availability, and open new export opportunities, solidifying Nigeria’s position in the global agribusiness landscape.
