By Merit Ibe
Amo Byng Nig Limited, an agric farm that produces poultry feed and concentrates, has initiated a transformative partnership with the Kwara state government to enhance local soybean production.
The collaboration marks a crucial step towards revitalising the soybean industry and strategically addressing a critical shortage that has significantly impacted poultry feed production across Nigeria.
The scarcity of soybeans, exacerbated by extensive exports, has led to rising costs in poultry feed production, posing a challenge for bird farmers nationwide.
To combat the lingering challenge, Amo Byng Nig Ltd. is stepping in to support local farmers by providing essential farming inputs and committing to purchase their soybean harvests. This initiative aims to stimulate local production, improve raw material availability, and ultimately reduce production costs for poultry feed.
As part of this pilot programme, the company has equipped 300 farmers with the necessary inputs to cultivate soybeans across 1,500 hectares in the Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The programme spans four communities within the local government area. In a further boost to the initiative, the Kwara state government has allocated tractors to assist farmers with land preparation, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the farming process.
The Group Managing Director of Amo Byng Nig Ltd., Dr. Ayoola Oduntan emphasised the partnership’s significance: “Addressing the soybean shortage is crucial for the poultry industry, as it directly impacts feed production. This partnership is vital for providing farmers with the necessary inputs and ensuring the purchase of their harvest. Our goal is to stimulate local production and alleviate the raw material shortage.”
Dr. Ayoola Belgore, Managing Director of Amo Byng Nig Ltd., elaborated on the broader vision of the initiative: “While this pilot program marks a significant step forward, our vision extends beyond this initial phase. We are committed to expanding its reach and bringing its benefits to other states in the near future.”
Adedamola Adeyeye, Head of Business at Amo Byng Nig Ltd., highlighted the comprehensive support provided to farmers: “Alongside providing essential inputs, we are dedicated to offering technical support and training throughout the production period to ensure farmers are well-equipped for success.”
Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, expressed her appreciation to the company and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the project and local farmers.
The event also saw the presence of key stakeholders including Mrs. Funke Sokoya, Permanent Secretary, Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Shuib Alawaye, Coordinator of Farmers Group, and Mr. Solomon Olawoyin, Kwara State Chairman of the Soybean Growers Association.
The partnership represents a significant advancement in agricultural collaboration and holds great promise for revitalizing soybean production in Nigeria. By ensuring a stable supply of locally produced soybeans, this initiative paves the way for a more sustainable and cost-effective poultry feed industry, ultimately benefiting the entire agricultural sector. The collaborative effort between Amo Byng Nig Ltd. and the Kwara State Government is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in driving economic growth and agricultural development.