The Kwara State Government has launched a strategic partnership with Amo Byng Nigeria Limited, a leading poultry feed and concentrate producer, to address the critical shortage of soybeans impacting Nigeria’s poultry industry. This collaboration aims to enhance local soybean production and mitigate the rising costs of poultry feed.
Key Highlights:
- Addressing Soybean Shortage: The initiative targets the scarcity of soybeans in Nigeria, exacerbated by significant exports.
- Support for Local Farmers: Amo Byng is providing essential farming inputs and guaranteeing the purchase of soybean harvests from participating farmers.
- Pilot Program: The initial phase involves 300 farmers cultivating soybeans on 1,500 hectares across four Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State communities.
- Government Support: The Kwara State Government is contributing tractors to improve farming efficiency and effectiveness.
Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, Group Managing Director of Amo Byng Nigeria Ltd., emphasised the partnership’s significance: “Our goal is to stimulate local production and alleviate the raw material shortage affecting Nigeria’s poultry industry.”
Dr. Ayoola Belgore, Managing Director of Amo Byng Nigeria Ltd., revealed plans to expand the initiative beyond Kwara State, demonstrating the company’s commitment to addressing the nationwide challenge.
Kwara State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Oloruntoyosi Thomas, lauded the initiative and reaffirmed the government’s support for the project and local farmers.
The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including:
- Funke Sokoya, Permanent Secretary, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture
- Shuib Alawaye, Coordinator of the Farmers Group
- Solomon Olawoyin, Kwara State Chairman of the Soybean Growers Association
This public-private partnership represents a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural self-sufficiency and supporting the poultry industry’s growth. By focusing on local soybean production, the initiative aims to create a sustainable solution to the ongoing challenges in the sector.