Nigeria is facing high food prices and a growing gap in animal protein. Leaders from US Soy say the answer is not to compete with local farmers but to work together. They emphasize better technology and training for workers.
US Soy refers to soybeans from the United States and the industry that produces, processes, and exports them worldwide. This was discussed during the USSEC & US Soy Nigeria: Now Conference 2026 held in late June. Three top executives from the US Soybean Export Council shared why Nigeria is a key market. They believe that US Soy, along with knowledge sharing and sustainable practices, can help close Nigeria’s protein gap.
Why Nigeria? Population and Demand
Brent Babb, Executive Director of the Soy Excellence Centre for USSEC, said Nigeria’s population growth is a big reason to pay attention. "Over 60 per cent of the US soybean crop is exported worldwide. We’ve worked a lot in Asia and North Africa, and we see strong opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria as the regional leader."
As the population grows, so does the need for protein, but Nigeria's protein consumption per person is still low. “That gap creates a significant opportunity,” Mr Babb explained. “Nigeria grows soybeans, but as demand for consumption rises, more soybeans will need to be imported. Our role is to complement Nigeria.”
This means teaming up with poultry, aquaculture, livestock, and soy food processors to boost demand for soy. Results are already coming in: Nigeria imported 62,000 tons of US soybeans in early 2025 after a six-year break. “We’re here for the long term,” Babb said. “This isn’t a competition with local soy production. Local production and imports can grow together.”
Beyond Beans: Energy and Efficiency
For Nigerian feed millers and farmers, Mr Babb pointed out that US Soy offers more than just protein. “US 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.”
He also noted that US Soy's consistency is often underrated. “As a producer, you know the product will be the same every time, year-round. You don’t need to over-formulate because the digestibility and energy values are reliable. That reduces costs.”
USSEC does not just stop at bean supply. They also provide advice on feed formulation, handling materials, and biosecurity, which is critical for Nigeria’s poultry sector. The Soy Excellence Centre is key for this technical training.
Collaborating for Better Outcomes
Cindy Pulskamp, a soybean farmer from North Dakota and Director with the US Soybean Export Council, spoke about the partnership. “We see it as collaborating. I’m looking to work with Nigerian agribusiness and food security stakeholders, sharing knowledge and learning from you.”
Ms Pulskamp's family farm is 114 years old and has one of the lowest carbon footprints in global soy. They use soil health and precision farming techniques. Cover crops help prevent erosion, GPS technology reduces field passes, and drones are used for crop protection. “Sustainability matters because our goal is to hand soil to the next generation in better condition than we received it,” she said.
On the issue of post-harvest losses, she mentioned that North Dakota's dry climate helps US farmers. She advised Nigerians on practical steps: “Where there is will and resources, there’s a way. I suspect high moisture and humidity during storage are the main drivers of loss here. US Soy can be stored for a year or more while maintaining quality.”
Training for Change
Anne Meis, Chair of the Soy Excellence Centre Global Advisory Panel, highlighted the impact of training. “We provide free training, starting with virtual courses accessible by phone. Participants take that knowledge back to feed mills and poultry farms and change practices immediately.”
This year, over 1,200 Nigerians graduated from SEC courses. Since its launch, more than 5,000 individuals have taken part. At Dunn-Maid Farms, graduates improved biosecurity and cut bird mortality. One feed mill increased pellet production by 15-20 per cent while reducing costs by 10 per cent after using full-fat soy techniques. “Our surveys show 94 per cent of graduates report stronger job skills, and 93% say their companies are more profitable,” Meis stated.
She advised Nigerian protein producers: “Protect your land and resources. You’re already exploring technology and innovation. Keep doing that, and you’ll be on the right path.”
Challenges Ahead
Mr Babb is hopeful but realistic about the challenges. “Financing is often the biggest challenge, pulling all the pieces together. The other is consistency across the value chain. You need quality day-old chicks, reliable soybean supplies for crushers to run at high capacity, and consumer demand that can withstand inflation.”
Still, there is a lot of energy in the air. “Growth won’t always be linear, but the energy is there, demand is there, financial investment is coming in, and the value chain gets stronger each year. Nigeria is well-positioned to take advantage of that opportunity.”
As USSEC celebrates over seven years in Nigeria, US Soy’s leaders emphasize that this partnership is here for the long haul. Their goal is to provide more affordable, quality protein for Nigerians.
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