US, Nigeria to bridge protein gap with soybean trade

US, Nigeria to bridge protein gap with soybean trade

The United States and Nigeria have strengthened their partnership to address Nigeria’s growing protein deficiency by expanding agricultural trade, particularly through increased U.S. soybean exports. This collaboration was a key focus of the “Nigeria: NOW” conference held in Lagos, which brought together U.S. and Nigerian stakeholders including government officials, agribusiness leaders, nutritionists, and poultry producers.

Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg emphasized the conference as a milestone for fostering mutual economic success and long-term food security in Nigeria. She reaffirmed the U.S. Mission’s commitment to linking American agribusinesses with Nigerian firms, sharing best practices, and encouraging the adoption of U.S. soy in Nigeria’s food and feed sectors.

The U.S. Consulate noted Nigeria’s protein consumption—averaging 45.4 grams per person daily—is significantly below global and FAO-recommended levels. Despite a soybean production estimate of 1.15 million metric tons for 2023/24, Nigeria still faces a supply shortfall, prompting it to resume soybean imports from the U.S. in 2024 with a shipment of 62,100 metric tons, the first in six years.

Prominent Nigerian leaders such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Seyi Makinde were present at the event, underlining the initiative’s national significance. U.S. Soybean Export Council CEO Jim Sutter and U.S. soybean farmer Robert Alpers also highlighted the sustainability, reliability, and mutual benefits of the U.S.–Nigeria soybean trade.

Overall, the conference underscored the potential of trade, innovation, and partnership to tackle food insecurity and boost Nigeria’s agricultural and nutritional resilience.