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NIGER, Nigeria - The Federal Government has revealed plans to collaborate with Brazilian livestock firm JBJ Brazil to create a 100,000-hectare cattle ranch in Niger State, intended to accommodate 100,000 bulls and enhance livestock production in Nigeria.
Minister of Livestock Development, Malam Idi Mukhtar, made this announcement during a visit to Governor Umaru Bago in Minna on Monday where he was accompanied by a delegation from JBJ Brazil.
Mukhtar explained that the ranch, which is part of a $2.5 billion investment deal with JBJ Brazil, has been strategically planned to utilize Niger State’s rich resources, such as its plentiful water supply and favorable climate.
The Niger State Government has committed 1.2 million hectares of land to aid the Federal Government’s livestock development program, with 100,000 hectares specifically set aside for the ranch.
“The Federal Government has announced the establishment of a large-scale cattle ranch in Niger State, in collaboration with JBJ Brazil, the world’s leading cattle rancher.
“The minister noted that the planned ranch would cover 100,000 hectares of land and accommodate 100,000 bulls.”
Mukhtar emphasized that financial negotiations with the Brazilian firm and other investors are still in progress.
Insights from Governor Bago, represented by his deputy, Yakubu Garba, indicated optimism regarding the initiative, highlighting Niger State’s natural resource advantages and the government’s commitment to livestock development.
He assured that the state is well-prepared to aid the project and maximize its economic benefits. Sammy Adigun, Chairman of Niger Foods, confirmed that Brazilian companies JBJ Brazil and JBS will play a crucial role in the project.
The Federal Government will facilitate their activities, which include animal production and processing, as part of its comprehensive strategy to modernize Nigeria’s livestock sector.
This initiative is anticipated to enhance local meat production, generate employment, and invigorate economic activities in Niger State. Notably, in November 2024, Nairametrics reported that Brazilian meat giant JBS signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian government for a $2.5 billion investment aimed at transforming Nigeria’s meat processing industry.
The plan encompasses the establishment of six factories, three for poultry, two for beef, and one for pork, over a five-year timeline, involving feasibility studies, budget allocations, and local supply chain development. In exchange, the Nigerian government guaranteed to supply the essential economic, sanitary, and regulatory support to ensure the project's success.
This effort aligns with JBS’s strategy to expand into Africa’s emerging markets, with Nigeria’s significant population and economic potential positioning it as a key growth market.
