Regional Director for South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa at the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), Kevin Roepke, has said that Nigeria is facing a protein deficiency, with consumption levels falling short of World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and global averages.
He explained that this nutritional challenge is not surprising given the country’s historically low poultry consumption, which plays a major role in protein intake.
However, he emphasized that the humble soybean could be a crucial part of the solution. “The humble soybean solves a lot of problems,” Roepke said.
“It is a versatile solution that addresses protein needs across dietary preferences.”
Roepke pointed out that soybeans offer a valuable solution for both vegetarians seeking plant-based protein and meat-lovers who enjoy poultry, fish, and seafood.
He highlighted that soybeans, rich in high-quality protein, can cater to the diverse dietary needs found across Nigeria, making them an important part of addressing the nation’s growing nutritional needs.
Roepke also mentioned that one of the key initiatives in raising awareness about protein deficiency and promoting soybeans as a nutritional solution is the “Right to Protein” campaign, which has been effective in educating Nigerians about the importance of protein in their diets.
“The campaign has been instrumental and effective in advocating for higher protein diets, particularly in countries like Nigeria,” he added.
Roepke further explained that after a six-year hiatus, Nigeria resumed importing U.S. soybeans in 2024, bringing in 62,000 tons of soybeans.
He described the resumption of trade as an exciting opportunity.
“Nigeria is a long-term market, and the demographics look extremely exciting,” he said.
He highlighted that the U.S. Soybean Export Council’s commitment to the region is grounded in the long-term investments made by U.S. soybean farmers. “We’re not just in Nigeria for Nigeria, but with Nigeria,” Roepke added. This approach emphasizes mutual growth through workforce training, efficiency gains, and increased commercial activity, paving the way for greater trade opportunities.
He also expressed optimism about the rising demand for soybeans in Nigeria, particularly as the country’s disposable income grows.
“One of the first things consumers do when they have more disposable income is add more protein to their diets,” Roepke explained.
He pointed out that consumers typically increase their consumption of poultry, eggs, aquaculture, and dairy as their income rises. Alongside this, the demand for vegetable oils also increases.
He added that this growing demand is coupled with Nigeria’s relatively low poultry consumption, which stands at just over 2 kilograms per capita, compared to over 50 kilograms in many other nations.
Roepke expressed confidence in the potential for growth in this sector, noting that this gap provides a unique opportunity for both U.S. soybean farmers and Nigerian poultry producers.
Roepke also emphasized the importance of the Soy Excellence Centre (SEC), a global initiative designed to upskill protein professionals, as a part of USSEC’s efforts to strengthen the protein industry in Nigeria.
“Since its launch five years ago, the SEC has trained over 4,000 people in Nigeria’s protein enterprise workforce,” he said.
According to Roepke, the success of the SEC lies in its industry-led approach, with the Nigerian Regional Advisory Council playing an active role in shaping the curriculum and ensuring it remains relevant over time.
“The real magic of this program is the fact that it’s industry-led,” he added.
The SEC’s focus on practical and relevant training has sparked enthusiasm among its graduates, many of whom continue their education even after receiving their certificates. This commitment to professional development, Roepke noted, is helping to build a skilled workforce capable of addressing Nigeria’s growing protein needs.
Roepke further highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s poultry sector, particularly the opportunity eggs provide as a source of affordable and efficient protein.
“Eggs are an elegant solution to many countries’ protein problems,” he said.
He pointed out that eggs are easy to produce, have a natural shelf life of around 30 days, and do not require a cold chain for distribution.
“They can be distributed out to the rural countryside where protein is desperately needed,” Roepke explained, underscoring how eggs can help meet Nigeria’s protein needs, especially in underserved areas.
Roepke’s vision for the future includes not only increasing soybean exports to Nigeria but also fostering deeper collaborations between U.S. and Nigerian industries to enhance local food security.
He expressed optimism about the long-term impact of USSEC’s efforts in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, saying that the focus on workforce development, increased protein consumption, and the development of the poultry sector provides a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
