Tinubu assures Nigerians hunger, poverty will soon end

President Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence that hunger and poverty in Nigeria will soon be eradicated with the successful implementation of his administration’s agricultural policies.

Speaking in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu emphasized his government’s renewed focus on food sufficiency and economic prosperity through significant investments in the livestock sector.

During the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and JBS S.A., one of the world’s largest meat processors, Tinubu highlighted the $2.5 billion investment plan to build six factories in Nigeria.

These facilities will focus on poultry, beef, and pork production, which he believes will address farmer-herder clashes, boost local supply chains, and create jobs.

Tinubu commended JBS S.A. for partnering with Nigeria, describing the company as a beacon of hope in addressing food insecurity. He assured the company’s executives of a conducive environment for business and profitable returns on their investment.

The partnership also includes feasibility studies and a five-year development plan to ensure the project’s viability.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Muhktar Mahia, revealed that Nigeria selected JBS S.A. after studying the company’s advanced technology and operational scale during a tour of Brazil. JBS processes 33,000 cattle and over eight million birds daily, employing over 200,000 people worldwide.

JBS’s founder, Wesley Batista, expressed optimism about the collaboration, describing Nigeria as a potential hub for protein supply in Africa.

He emphasized the company’s readiness to help develop Nigeria’s livestock industry and tap into its vast market potential.

Separately, Minister of Finance Wale Edun disclosed that recent market reforms, including the removal of petroleum subsidies and exchange rate adjustments, saved Nigeria approximately $20 billion.

He said the funds would now be channeled into infrastructure, health, and education.

Edun praised the transformative policies as a departure from rent-seeking practices, urging Nigerians to explore opportunities in agriculture and exports.

He also lauded the civil service’s ongoing reforms aimed at driving efficiency and supporting Tinubu’s economic agenda.