The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria are collaborating with Nigerian companies to boost trade and address the country’s protein deficit.
At last week’s signature “Nigeria: NOW” conference in Lagos, stakeholders from government and private sectors—including poultry producers and nutritionists—convened to discuss strategies for increasing protein supply.
With a population exceeding 236 million, Nigeria’s average daily protein intake stands at just 45.4 grams per person—below the FAO’s recommended 60 grams and the global average of 64 grams.
Speaking at the event, Acting U.S. Consul General in Lagos, JoEllen Gorg, highlighted the partnership’s significance: “This conference marks a pivotal milestone toward mutual prosperity. By addressing Nigeria’s protein gap and promoting innovation, the U.S. Soy industry supports a resilient agricultural sector, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability.”
Gorg emphasized the collaboration’s role in connecting U.S. exporters with Nigerian agribusinesses, training local farmers, and expanding U.S. soy usage in Nigeria’s feed and food industries.
High-profile Nigerian figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and Lagos State Agriculture Commissioner Abisola Olusanya, underscored the importance of deepening U.S.-Nigeria cooperation.
USSEC CEO Jim Sutter stressed, “Trade drives economies globally and locally. U.S. Soy remains a trusted partner and supplier.”
Generational U.S. Soy farmer and United Soybean Director Robert Alpers added, “We are committed to sustainably feeding the world by producing more with fewer resources and minimizing environmental impact.”
Although Nigeria produces soybeans domestically—estimated at 1.15 million metric tons for the 2023/24 marketing year—demand far exceeds supply, especially in the animal feed sector. Consequently, Nigeria imported 62,100 metric tons of U.S. soybeans this year after a six-year hiatus.
