NIRSAL launches feedlot training as Nigeria prepares for US$2.5B JBS meat investment

NIGERIA – The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) has rolled out a Feedlot Management Training Programme aimed at upgrading the country’s livestock production capacity. 

The training programme, launched in Abuja, is a joint initiative between NIRSAL Plc, a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-owned non-bank financial institution, and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development. 

It is designed to equip local stakeholders with the technical skills and operational knowledge needed to meet modern meat production standards.

The move follows a high-level agreement signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with global meat giant JBS, featuring a US$2.5 billion foreign direct investment in its meat industry, and bringing six new meat processing facilities to Nigeria. 

Two of these plants will focus on beef, raising demand for high-quality livestock from domestic producers.

Speaking at the opening session, NIRSAL’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Sa’ad Hamidu, said the training marks the start of a nationwide effort to modernise livestock rearing and meat processing practices in Nigeria.

“As it is, we are preparing Nigerian livestock producers to feed not just the nation, but the world. And this aligns directly with the Federal Government’s vision for an agriculturally empowered, export-ready nation,” Mr. Hamidu declared. 

Raising standards for export markets

NIRSAL states that the programme will extend beyond knowledge-sharing by directly supporting farmers in running profitable and export-oriented livestock operations. 

Key areas of focus include improved feed formulation, reduced input waste, and optimised livestock fattening cycles to achieve premium market value.

According to Hamidu, “Nigeria is on the verge of emerging as a prime destination for global meat investment,” with the JBS deal representing a major leap toward that goal.

The initiative also seeks to help farmers meet the stringent standards required for export-grade beef. This aligns with Nigeria’s broader agricultural export agenda, which has become a national priority under the current administration.

The first group of trainees included representatives from the Ministry of Livestock Development, the Federal Capital Development Authority’s Agriculture Department, and stakeholders from private firms such as Maidoki Farms Ltd. Industry groups like NACDPMAN and AUFCDN also took part.

NIRSAL’s strategy includes loan guarantees for agribusinesses, technical support, and full value chain integration through public-private partnerships. This holistic approach, the agency says, is essential to overcoming longstanding barriers in Nigeria’s livestock industry.

“Nigeria’s livestock sector, rich in potential but hampered by outdated practices, poor-quality feed, and limited financing, stands on the brink of genuine transformation,” NIRSAL said in a statement.

While the JBS partnership is the most significant, NIRSAL confirmed that other players are also ramping up investment in the sector. Domestic agribusiness firm ABIS Group is among those expanding their footprint in Nigeria’s meat value chain, highlighting the growing demand for consistent, high-quality feed sources.

With the training programme underway and major investments incoming, stakeholders are optimistic that Nigeria’s livestock industry is finally poised for a turnaround. 

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