Olam Agri Among Firms Poised to Boost Soybean Production

In a bold move to boost agricultural productivity and transform the soybean value chain, agribusiness giant Olam Agri has entered into a strategic partnership with IDH and Nigerian agricultural firm Arzikin Noma. The initiative, announced on Friday, targets 5,000 smallholder farmers in Kwara State, with a strong focus on women and youth empowerment.

Soybeans, rich in protein and oil, are a crucial crop in food production, livestock feed, and industrial use. Yet despite its growing demand, local supply remains underdeveloped. This partnership aims to change that by unlocking the potential of smallholder farmers through a comprehensive support programme that includes credit access, mechanisation, sustainable farming training, and secure market linkages.

Country Director at IDH, Eniola Fabusoro, described the project as a bridge between large agribusinesses and grassroots producers:

“By combining our networks and experience with SMEs like Arzikin Noma, we’re transforming supply chains and delivering measurable impact. Sustainable trade, when done right, can uplift communities and strengthen markets.”

Arzikin Noma’s Managing Director, Adeoluwa Adeshola, said the partnership will “raise both the quality and quantity of locally grown soybeans,” reinforcing the firm’s commitment to food security and sustainable practices.

Shailendra Mishra, Global Sustainability Head at Olam Agri, called the collaboration a step toward a more regenerative, inclusive agricultural system:

“This model shows how farming can restore soil health, uplift rural economies, and empower communities—especially when scale, sustainability, and local ownership are aligned.”

Vice President and Soybean Project Head at Olam Agri, Mustafa Turra, noted the economic benefits for farmers:

“As the main off-taker for the soybeans, we’re ensuring these farmers have a stable, transparent, and rewarding market.”

The initiative will complement Olam Agri’s new 350,000 metric-ton soybean processing plant in Kwara, which relies heavily on locally sourced produce to meet the surging demand for feed and oil products.

The programme is part of Olam Agri’s broader “Seeds for the Future” project, launched in 2021 to support rural livelihoods and sustainable farming communities.