The Niger State Government has committed 1.2 million hectares of land to support a $2.5 billion livestock investment initiative between the Federal Government of Nigeria and JBS, a Brazilian multinational company renowned as one of the world’s largest meat processing enterprises.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who was part of the Nigerian delegation present at the signing of the letter of intent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, expressed the state’s readiness to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for economic growth and agricultural development.
Highlighting Niger State’s role as a pilot state for the project, Governor Bago revealed that the initiative is expected to generate one million jobs, establish 100,000 new homes in farm estates, and create 100 agricultural facilities.
He further emphasized that the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, with 125 kilometers traversing Niger State, will serve as a crucial enabler for the envisioned agricultural revolution.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commended Niger State’s dedication, noting that the state’s support is paving the way for a new era of prosperity.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering international and local investments in the livestock sector, emphasizing that the project will enhance food security, reduce farmer-herder clashes, eradicate hunger, and promote economic prosperity for Nigerians.
“This initiative will transform the agricultural value chain, address the crisis of farmer-herder conflicts, and chart a path toward economic growth and stability,” President Tinubu stated during the agreement signing.
The delegation included prominent figures such as the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; Co-chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reform Committee, Professor Attahiru Jega; Secretary of the Committee, Professor Mohammed Kuta Yahaya; and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council, Aisha Rimi.