‘Nigeria imported 62,000 tonnes of US soybeans’

Nigeria has resumed importing U.S. soybeans, receiving 62,000 tonnes in early 2025 after a six-year absence from the market. The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) views Nigeria as a key regional leader with significant potential for growth in soy consumption.

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Over 60 per cent of the U.S. soybean crop is exported worldwide. We’ve worked extensively in Asia and North Africa, and we see strong opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria as the regional leader.

Brent Babb, Executive Director for USSEC in Sub-Saharan Africa, stated that while Nigeria grows soybeans, rising demand necessitates imports. USSEC aims to support this by working with local poultry, aquaculture, livestock, and soy food processors to increase soy usage. Babb emphasized that this is not a competition with local production, but a complementary effort where both can expand.

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Nigeria grows soybeans, but as demand for consumption rises, more soybeans will need to be imported. Our role is to complement Nigeria.

U.S. Soy offers advantages beyond crude protein, including high levels of digestible amino acids, which reduce feed costs for livestock and fish while maintaining performance. The consistent quality of U.S. soybeans also allows for more precise feed formulation, further reducing costs for producers. USSEC plans to collaborate with Nigerian farmers on technology and capacity development to enhance local production.

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This isn’t a competition with local soy production. Local production and imports can grow together.

Despite optimism, Babb acknowledged challenges such as financing and ensuring consistency throughout the value chain, from chick quality to reliable soybean supply and consumer demand that can withstand inflation. However, he remains hopeful about the sector's prospects, citing existing demand, incoming investment, and a strengthening value chain.

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U.S. Soy has high levels of digestible amino acids. It’s not just protein, it’s digestibility for poultry, livestock, and fish. The energy value is also often overlooked, and higher energy means you can reduce energy costs in the diet while maintaining performance.