In a decisive move to confront Nigeria’s growing food security and livestock feed challenges, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has entered into a high-level collaboration with the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), marking a significant step toward transforming bilateral agreements into tangible agro-industrial outcomes.

The strategic engagement, held at the NCSP headquarters in Abuja, brought together leadership teams from both organisations to chart a joint agricultural pathway aligned with key frameworks of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking during the meeting, NCSP Director General, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, reiterated the agency’s expanded mandate to manage over 55 China-Nigeria bilateral agreements spanning sectors like agriculture, mining, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

“We are deliberately shifting from transactional projects to integrated, development-focused partnerships that generate long-term national value,” Mr. Tegbe stated.

“Agriculture, particularly sustainable food systems and livestock development, is one of the cornerstones of our current focus with the Chinese government and private sector.”

Representing BORBDA, Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Samuel Adekanmbi, presented the National Feed Development Initiative—a flagship proposal aimed at curbing Nigeria’s chronic livestock feed shortage. The initiative envisions the establishment of feed production hubs across all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

“Our approach will incorporate Juncao grass, soybean meal, and black soldier fly larvae as sustainable feed components,” Dr. Adekanmbi explained.

“This model not only improves animal nutrition and food security, but also creates youth employment opportunities—especially through collaboration with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE)—and reduces herder-farmer conflicts.”

Dr. Adekanmbi emphasized that BORBDA already has the land and irrigation infrastructure required to begin immediate implementation, and called on NCSP to mobilise Chinese technical expertise and private sector investment to fast-track the initiative.

Both agencies expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the collaboration, which aims to catalyse a new wave of agricultural innovation and inclusive economic growth.

“NCSP is fully committed to activating and scaling partnerships that are in line with the broader bilateral and national vision,” Mr. Tegbe affirmed.

“We are ready to facilitate Chinese engagement, connect with relevant ministries, and ensure that Nigeria benefits fully from this development opportunity.”

This engagement underscores NCSP’s commitment to evolving Nigeria’s bilateral relationship with China from policy agreements into practical, high-impact programs that respond to national needs. The partnership also positions Nigeria to benefit from sustainable food production techniques while building resilience in the agricultural value chain.

In a landmark move to revitalise Plateau State’s agro-industrial economy, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has officially commissioned an ultra-modern maize milling plant operated by Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited in Jos, the state capital.

The high-capacity plant, described as Nigeria’s second most advanced maize processing facility, is expected to significantly boost food processing, create jobs, and position Plateau as a leading hub for agricultural value addition in Nigeria.

Addressing dignitaries, industry stakeholders, and members of the public at the commissioning on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming Plateau into a thriving agro-industrial zone.

“We want to revive all the ailing industries in the state. That’s why we’ve reached out to Rescue Mill, which is currently on the brink of collapse. Our goal is to make Plateau a business hub for ventures like this. Once we meet local demand, we can expand beyond the state and even beyond the country,” the Governor stated.

He lauded the efforts of Benybite Foods, calling their investment a model for private sector-driven development in the state’s agricultural sector. According to him, such ventures align with his government’s “Rescue Agenda” for industrial recovery and economic growth.

“This initiative fits perfectly with our vision to transform Plateau into an industrial and agricultural leader in Nigeria,” Mutfwang said.

The Governor also highlighted infrastructure and energy as critical enablers of industrial development, expressing optimism that the newly formed Plateau Energy Commission, chaired by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, alongside the State Energy Corporation, would deliver practical energy solutions to power industries across Plateau.

Benybite Plant: A Game-Changer for Nigeria’s Food Processing Sector

Earlier, Mr. Benjamin Kayode-Ojo, Managing Director and CEO of Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, described the maize processing facility as the largest in Plateau and the second most technologically advanced in Nigeria.

“This plant places Plateau at the epicenter of modern agricultural processing in the country,” he said.

The plant boasts a milling capacity of 6,000 tons of maize monthly and the ability to clean over 10,000 tons, all built with stainless steel technology, which Mr. Kayode-Ojo said makes it one of the most food-safe facilities in the country.

He added that the factory is strategically positioned to serve as a major supplier of raw materials to Jos International Breweries and other food and beverage industries nationwide.

“We envision a future where Plateau becomes the raw materials hub for industries across Nigeria. This factory is a strategic part of that vision,” he said.

The Benybite CEO also praised Governor Mutfwang for his unwavering support, crediting the state government’s partnership as instrumental to the project’s early delivery.

“Your Excellency, this commissioning would not have been possible without your passion and commitment to industrial growth. We sincerely appreciate you for honoring our request despite your busy schedule,” he noted.

He revealed that although the facility was originally planned to be completed in a year, the dedication and skill of local technicians made it possible in just six months.

“This is proof that when we believe in ourselves and invest in local capacity, we can achieve great things,” Kayode-Ojo added.

Towards a Self-Sufficient Plateau 

The commissioning of the maize milling plant marks a significant stride in Plateau’s post-COVID industrial recovery efforts. With agriculture accounting for a major share of the state’s economy, the move is expected to open new export opportunities, improve food security, and reduce post-harvest losses.

The event attracted top Plateau government officials, local entrepreneurs, traditional rulers, and development partners, all applauding the synergy between the public and private sectors.

Governor Mutfwang’s administration has also intensified efforts to revive dormant state assets and incentivize private investments through improved infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and strategic partnerships.

In a significant move to promote economic inclusion and support local enterprise, the Oyo State Government has officially handed over land allocation letters to cashew merchants operating at the Ultra-Modern Business Complex in Ogbomoso.

The development was announced during a formal presentation held at the state secretariat in Ibadan. Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, led the ceremony and described the moment as “the resolution of a prolonged land regularization process between the merchants and the government.”

Speaking to the traders, Adebisi emphasized the state’s commitment to sustainable economic development through peaceful negotiations and responsive governance.

“For the government, economic expansion is paramount. A thriving economy can only flourish in a peaceful environment,” the Commissioner declared.

He disclosed that following numerous consultative meetings with the traders, the state government had agreed to slash the cost of land from ₦500 to ₦250 per square metre. In addition, beneficiaries will enjoy a two-year moratorium, with payment to commence in May 2025 and continue in installments until April 2035.

Adebisi further assured the merchants that the land allocation process had been conducted transparently and without the involvement of middlemen.

“We commend the merchants for their patience and cooperation throughout the dialogue process. This gesture is a testament to the state government’s inclusive governance strategy,” he said.

Representing the cashew merchants, Mr. Jide Akalaifa and Mr. Jubril Arulogun expressed appreciation for the government’s proactive and transparent handling of the issue.

 “We thank the Ministry for addressing our long-standing concerns and offering favourable terms. This allocation strengthens the government’s commitment to inclusive economic development,” said Mr. Akalaifa.

 “These lands provide a structured opportunity for our businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the internally generated revenue of Oyo State,” added Mr. Arulogun.

This initiative is expected to boost local entrepreneurship, support agricultural trade, and foster job creation within the state’s commercial hubs.