JBS, a global leader in food production, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Government. This collaboration involves the construction of six factories that aim to bolster local production capabilities. Specifically, three facilities will focus on poultry, while two will be dedicated to beef, and one will cater to pork production.
Currently, JBS is undertaking comprehensive feasibility studies, preliminary facility designs, budget estimates, and a detailed supply chain action plan to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative.
In return, the Nigerian Government commits to providing essential economic, health, and regulatory frameworks deemed necessary for the project’s viability and success.
Addressing Food Insecurity in Nigeria
The primary objective of this agreement is to develop a robust partnership with the Nigerian Government, enabling both parties to combat food insecurity in Nigeria and throughout Africa. As highlighted by JBS, approximately 24.8 million people in Nigeria are currently experiencing hunger, making it one of the nations with the highest rates of food insecurity worldwide.
Gilberto Tomazoni, the global CEO of JBS, stated, “Experience in the regions where we operate around the world shows that developing a sustainable food production chain generates a virtuous cycle of socioeconomic progress for the population, especially the most vulnerable groups.”
Criticism of the Investment Plan
Despite the optimistic outlook, the initiative has faced significant criticism from food awareness organization ProVeg International, represented by its divisions in Nigeria and Brazil.
In a united statement, they argued that the investment plan could be “counterproductive to ensuring food security” not only in Nigeria but across Africa. They cautioned that “large-scale, intensive animal agriculture operations lead to heightened biosecurity risks, increased antibiotic resistance, deforestation, and climate-damaging emissions.” These issues have already manifested in Brazil, where JBS is headquartered.
Director of ProVeg Nigeria, Hakeem Jimo, expressed strong concerns, asserting, “This is the completely wrong approach to food production in Africa in the 21st Century and detrimental to food security, as it will lead to feed agriculture being prioritized over food production for the people.” Furthermore, he emphasized, “We can feed seven times more people with nutritious, plant-protein rich food than with inefficient animal protein.”
