…signs $10m Morocco deal on oil-palm by-product
Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced plans to collaborate with Brazilian food industry leader, Jose Batista Sobrinho (JBS), to boost livestock production and agro-processing in the state.
JBS, with over seven decades of global operations, is the world’s largest protein producer and the second-largest food company, specializing in beef, pork, lamb, chicken processing, and value-added convenience foods.
The governor made this known during a meeting at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, with the Managing Director of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Aisha Rimi, alongside key JBS executives Fabio Maia, Director of International Operations, and Osorio Dal Bello, Head of Poultry and Swine.
Governor Abiodun emphasized Ogun State’s readiness to provide an enabling environment for JBS and other multinational investors, highlighting the state’s leadership in agro-processing and industrial development.
“We have designated an area in the state as a livestock production zone and have established the first agro-processing zone in Nigeria,” Abiodun stated.
“This zone is co-located with a special agro-airport to facilitate the export of highly perishable goods.”
The governor further noted that Ogun accounts for a significant share of cattle processed in Lagos State, where 10,000 to 15,000 cattle are slaughtered daily. This highlights Ogun’s strategic importance in the nation’s livestock supply chain.
Abiodun expressed confidence that JBS would find Ogun State ideal for its operations, citing its track record of hosting blue-chip companies such as Nestlé, Olam, and Cadbury.
He disclosed plans to launch a timber processing zone and noted the recent establishment of the Ogun inland port to enhance the efficiency of local manufacturers.
He also revealed a $10 million partnership with a Moroccan firm for palm oil by-product exports, which is set to commence in a few weeks.
JBS’ Commitment to Nigeria
Fabio Maia, JBS Director of International Expansion, commended Ogun State’s business-friendly environment and confirmed the company’s plans to build three chicken plants, two cattle plants, and one swine plant in Nigeria.
JBS is set to invest $2.5 billion in the Nigerian economy, focusing on livestock production and agro-processing.
Aisha Rimi, Managing Director of the NIPC, highlighted that the JBS visit followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to Brazil, during which a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on livestock production was signed between the Federal Government and JBS.
The partnership between Ogun State and JBS is expected to further solidify Ogun’s position as Nigeria’s leading industrial and agricultural hub while driving economic growth and job creation.