How to Start Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria- A Comprehensive Guide

Soya beans farming in Nigeria is gaining serious momentum. Demand from food manufacturers, animal feed producers, and exporters continues to rise sharply, yet local production still lags, creating a wide supply gap that smart entrepreneurs can capitalise on.

Recent figures from the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service project Nigeria’s soya beans output to reach 1.3 million metric tonnes in the 2024/25 season, an improvement from 1.15 million tonnes the year before. But it is still not enough. National demand sits around 1.5 million metric tonnes annually, leaving a shortfall of over 200,000 tonnes. This persistent gap highlights a clear opportunity for agropreneurs ready to plug into one of the most in-demand crops in the country.

If you’re ready to get into one of the most promising agricultural business opportunities in Nigeria, this guide will walk you through the entire process, from land preparation and seed selection to harvest and market access. You’ll learn about cost structures, potential profit margins, and practical strategies to run a sustainable soya beans venture.

And if you’re serious about starting strong, enrol for our Entrepreneurship Starter Bundle Program (ESBP), a practical, step-by-step course designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs start, structure, and scale profitable businesses in Nigeria.

See Also: How To Start Groundnut Farming in Nigeria: Costs, Profit, Processing, and Full Guide.

Key Takeaways

• Nigeria’s current production of soya beans is not meeting rising demand, creating a viable entry point for new farmers and agropreneurs.
• Success in soya beans farming depends on choosing the right location, planting at the right time, and using high-yield seed varieties.
• With average yields of 1.5–2.5 tonnes per hectare and strong market prices, soya beans farming is both scalable and profitable.
• Beyond cultivation, opportunities exist across the value chain, from processing into oil and animal feed to exporting raw grains.

What is Soya Beans?

Soya bean, also known as soybean (Glycine max), is a leguminous crop grown primarily for its high-protein seeds. It is one of the most versatile and commercially important crops in the world.

The seeds are packed with protein (about 35–40%) and oil (roughly 18–20%), making them a key ingredient in food, animal feed, and industrial products. In Nigeria and globally, soya beans are used to produce vegetable oil, soy milk, tofu, animal feed, especially poultry and fish feed, and a range of processed foods.

It is also a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it improves soil fertility naturally, making it an excellent crop for rotation in sustainable farming systems.

In short, soya bean is both a food source and a money crop, which is why it is gaining ground as one of the most profitable agricultural investments today.

Health Benefits of Soya Beans

Apart from its commercial value, soya beans farming in Nigeria is backed by the growing health-conscious population. The nutritional profile of soya beans makes them an essential part of both human and animal diets.

Below are some of the standout health benefits that continue to drive soya beans production in Nigeria and beyond.

1. Rich Source of Plant-Based Protein

Soya beans are a complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. This makes them an excellent alternative to animal protein, especially for vegetarians and those seeking low-cholesterol diets. Each 100 grams of soybeans contains approximately 36 grams of high-quality protein.

As health trends shift towards plant-based diets, the demand for soy-based products like soy milk, tofu, and meat alternatives continues to rise, driving up local consumption and creating more agricultural business opportunities in Nigeria.

2. Supports Heart Health

Soya beans are naturally low in saturated fat and rich in unsaturated fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain isoflavones, plant compounds that help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and improve arterial flexibility.

Regular intake of soy-based foods has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, making soya beans a heart-friendly food choice.

3. Aids in Muscle and Bone Strength

Thanks to their high protein and calcium content, soya beans help in muscle repair and bone maintenance. For growing children, athletes, and the elderly, incorporating soya beans into daily meals supports stronger bones and better mobility.

Isoflavones in soy may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially in post-menopausal women.

4. Boosts Brain Function and Cognitive Health

Soya beans are packed with essential nutrients like folate, vitamin K, and omega-3s that play a role in brain development and cognitive function. Studies suggest that moderate consumption of soy can help improve memory and reduce age-related mental decline.

5. Supports Digestive Health

The high fibre content in soya beans promotes gut health by aiding digestion and preventing constipation. Fermented soy products like soy yoghurt and tempeh also contain probiotics that further support healthy gut flora.

With health-conscious eating becoming more mainstream, local demand for soy-based products is only going to increase. This health appeal is one of the key factors behind the growth of soya beans farming in Nigeria, especially among agropreneurs targeting urban and export markets.

From food processors to wellness brands, buyers are actively sourcing raw and processed soya for health-driven product lines.

What Is Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria About?

Soya beans farming in Nigeria refers to the cultivation of soya bean crops for commercial, nutritional, and industrial purposes. It involves planting, managing, and harvesting soya beans primarily for local consumption, animal feed production, and agro-processing.

Farmers grow soya beans for their protein-rich seeds, which are in high demand by food processing companies, poultry feed manufacturers, and exporters. Beyond raw grains, soya is processed into products like vegetable oil, soy milk, flour, livestock feed, and even biofuels. This makes soya beans farming not just an agricultural activity but a gateway into one of the most valuable agricultural business opportunities in Nigeria.

With increasing demand, improved seed varieties, and strong market access, soya beans farming offers a profitable path for both smallholder farmers and commercial agribusinesses.

Types of Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

Soya beans farming in Nigeria is practised in different ways depending on land size, farming goals, available resources, and market orientation. Understanding the various approaches helps agropreneurs choose the most suitable model for their operations.

1. Subsistence Soya Beans Farming

Subsistence farming is where many Nigerian farmers begin. It is the traditional model, practised mainly in rural communities, where soya beans are grown for household use and small-scale trade. These farms are often less than two hectares in size and rely on manual labour, local seed varieties, and little to no fertiliser application.

Yields from this model are modest, but it serves its purpose: feeding the family, providing a little extra income, and maintaining food security. Because of its low capital requirement, it remains the most widespread entry point for rural agropreneurs, especially in northern Nigeria where soya beans are well adapted to the climate and soil.

2. Commercial Soya Beans Farming

At the other end of the spectrum is commercial soya beans farming. This is driven by profit and scale, often involving mechanisation, improved seed varieties, structured irrigation, and better crop management techniques. Farmers in this category are focused on supplying large volumes to food processors, oil mills, animal feed manufacturers, and sometimes the export market.

It is most commonly found in states such as Kaduna and Benue, where access to larger tracts of arable land, input suppliers, and buyers makes scaling more feasible. For entrepreneurs aiming to build a high-yield, sustainable agro-business, this model offers significant rewards if done right.

3. Organic Soya Beans Farming

Though still relatively new in Nigeria, organic soya beans farming is attracting attention, especially among health-conscious consumers and premium markets. This model avoids synthetic fertilisers and chemical pesticides, instead relying on natural compost, cover cropping, and eco-friendly pest control.

While it typically produces lower yields compared to conventional methods, organic farming offers higher selling prices and access to niche buyers who prioritise food safety and environmental sustainability. As awareness grows, organic soya presents an opportunity for farmers looking to differentiate their product and build a health-focused agribusiness brand.

4. Contract-Based Soya Beans Farming

In this model, farmers enter into agreements with off-takers, usually processing companies or aggregators, before planting begins. The buyer often supplies seeds, fertilisers, and sometimes technical support, in return for a guaranteed purchase of the harvest at an agreed price.

This arrangement reduces the market risks that smallholder farmers typically face, such as price fluctuations and post-harvest losses. It also opens the door to support services and funding opportunities that independent farmers might struggle to access. Contract farming is growing in popularity, especially in northern Nigeria, where clusters of farmers can be reached easily by off-takers.

5. Intercropped Soya Beans Farming

Intercropping involves growing soya beans alongside other crops such as maize, millet, or sorghum. This system is commonly used by smallholder farmers who want to maximise land use and reduce the risk of crop failure. When done properly, intercropping can improve soil fertility, balance household food supply, and provide multiple streams of income.

However, it requires good timing and careful spacing to ensure each crop gets enough nutrients, water, and sunlight. Intercropping works best in regions where land is limited but the climate supports more than one crop within the same planting season.

Each of these models reflects a different level of investment, risk, and reward. For new entrants thinking about how to start soya beans farming in Nigeria, understanding these types is key to choosing a path that aligns with your resources, goals, and long-term vision.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

Starting soya beans farming in Nigeria is a smart move for anyone looking to tap into a profitable and growing agricultural sector. But like every business, success depends on strategy, not guesswork.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to go from idea to harvest:

Step 1: Start With a Feasibility Study and a Solid Plan

Before you jump into planting, take a moment to understand the business you’re entering. That’s where a proper feasibility study comes in. Look beyond the surface. What’s the soil quality like in your chosen area? Do buyers operate nearby? Are there storage options within reach? These are the kinds of questions that help you plan with intention, not emotion.

Then there’s the business plan. And this isn’t just paperwork, it is your blueprint. It forces you to think through your costs, your numbers, your capacity, and your goals. I’ve seen too many entrepreneurs skip this part and struggle later when reality hits. If writing one feels overwhelming, that’s okay; some of our readers have had theirs done through our business plan writing service, just so they can stay focused on execution.

The truth is, clarity on paper brings clarity in the field. Get that part right, and you’re already ahead of the curve.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Your location will do a lot of the work for you, or make everything harder than it should be. Soya beans need the right kind of soil: well-drained, loamy, and not too acidic. You also want consistent rainfall, especially during the growing cycle. That’s why many successful farms are found in Kaduna, Benue, Niger, and Taraba, they are the best states for soya beans farming in Nigeria.

But don’t assume any plot of land will do. What works for cassava or maize may not work here. You’ll want to walk the land, feel the soil, maybe even test it if you can. Don’t rush this decision, land is not just a physical space, it is a partner in your business. And once you find the right spot, you’re no longer guessing; you’re building on solid ground.

Step 3: Register Your Business Properly

You might be thinking, “Do I need to register just to farm?” The short answer is yes, if you’re serious. Farming today isn’t just about planting and harvesting; it is about building a structured, bankable business. And that starts with getting your business registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria.

Business registration does more than make you look official. It opens doors to grants, loans, partnerships, and contracts, all of which usually require a formal business structure. Even buyers and aggregators are more likely to work with a registered entity because it signals credibility and long-term thinking.

If you’re not sure what it costs or where to start, we’ve broken it down clearly in this guide on CAC Registration Fees in Nigeria. And for those who’d rather not deal with the back and forth, we offer a seamless business registration service to get it done quickly and correctly, no stress, no delays.

Step 4: Get Your Land Ready

Once your business is registered and your location is sorted, it is time to prepare the land. This is where many new farmers rush in and later realise they skipped the foundation. Land preparation isn’t just about clearing the bush, it is about setting the ground up for a healthy, productive crop.

Start by clearing weeds, stumps, and debris. If the land has been fallow, even better, you’re likely working with soil that’s rich and undisturbed. Then move on to ploughing and harrowing to loosen the soil and allow for proper aeration and root penetration. Depending on your scale, this can be done manually or with a tractor. If you’re working with mechanisation for the first time, get someone who knows what they’re doing to walk you through it. It’ll save you time and avoid costly mistakes.

This stage sets the tone for everything else. Rushed or poorly done land prep almost always shows up later in the form of patchy crops and low yields. So take your time. Give your soil the attention it deserves. After all, this is the stage where you plant your success.

Step 5: Choose the Right Seed Variety

Seeds are everything. What you plant determines what you harvest, and no amount of hard work can fix a poor choice at this stage. The right seed variety sets the tone for your yield, pest resistance, and market value.

In Nigeria, we have several improved varieties of soya beans developed for high performance. Varieties like TGX 1448-2E, TGX 1835-10E, and TGX 1904-6F. These are bred to resist common pests and diseases and are well-suited to Nigerian soil and climate. Don’t just buy what’s available at your local market. Ask questions. Source your seeds from certified agro-dealers or recognised research institutions like IITA or any reputable local distributor that works with improved seed stock.

And if you’re buying in bulk or partnering with aggregators, check what variety their processors prefer. Some buyers have specific standards, especially if the crop is headed for food processing or export.

The goal is simple: don’t gamble with your seeds. Think of them as your raw material. A business can’t run on bad inputs, and neither can a farm.

Step 6: Plant at the Right Time and Do It Right

Timing is everything in farming. You could have the best seeds, the best land, and still underperform if you plant at the wrong time. For soya beans farming in Nigeria, the ideal planting season starts from May and runs through early July, depending on your location and the onset of the rains.

Don’t wait for the rain to be halfway through the season before planting because by then, you’ve lost the advantage. You want to plant just as the soil has absorbed enough moisture to support germination, not when it is already waterlogged or dried out.

Spacing also matters. Give your crop room to breathe. Use row spacing of 75 cm and intra-row spacing of 5–10 cm. That balance allows for proper air circulation, sunlight penetration, and ease of weeding. Plant at a depth of about 3–5 cm, not too shallow to be washed away, and not too deep to struggle with emergence.

Whether you’re planting by hand or using a mechanical planter, consistency is key. Uniform spacing leads to uniform growth, and uniform growth makes everything from weeding to harvesting a lot more efficient.

Planting might look like the easy part, but it is where your foundation either holds or cracks. Take your time. Get it right.

Step 7: Feed Your Crop and Stay Ahead of Weeds

Once your soya beans are in the ground, they’ll need a little help to grow strong. Yes, soya is a legume and fixes nitrogen in the soil, but that doesn’t mean you can skip fertiliser altogether. What it means is you use the right kind of support, in the right amount, and at the right time.

Apply phosphorus-rich fertilisers like SSP (Single Super Phosphate) or NPK 15:15:15 at planting or shortly after. Soya beans respond well to phosphorus in the early stages, especially for root development and pod formation. You don’t need to overdo it; even 30 to 40 kg per hectare is often enough if your soil is reasonably healthy.

Then there’s weed control, this one gets underestimated a lot. The first 6 weeks after planting are the most critical. If weeds compete with your crop during this period, your yield can drop drastically. You can use herbicides, manual weeding, or both, depending on your budget and farm size. The key is not to delay. Weeds don’t wait, and by the time they take over, you’re already losing money.

The principle here is simple: give your plants the best chance to grow. Don’t plant and walk away. Pay attention, especially in the early weeks. That’s where the difference between average and excellent yields is made.

Step 8: Protect Your Crop from Pests and Diseases

Soya beans attract their fair share of pests and diseases, especially when you’re not paying close attention. But the good news is, most of these threats are manageable if you act early and stay consistent with monitoring.

Look out for common pests like aphids, leaf beetles, and pod borers. They may look small, but they can do big damage, chewing through leaves, sucking sap, and reducing your yield without you realising it. Don’t wait until your field is visibly infested. Walk your farm weekly, especially in the early stages, and intervene as soon as you spot anything unusual.

Then there are diseases like rust, bacterial blight, and downy mildew. These usually show up during prolonged rainfall or poor ventilation within the crop. The best prevention? Start with certified seeds, avoid overcrowding during planting, and rotate your crops. Don’t plant soya in the same field season after season; it weakens your soil and encourages disease build-up.

If you must spray, don’t guess. Get professional advice on the right pesticides or fungicides, and always follow dosage instructions. More is not better, balance is what protects your crop and the environment.

In business, prevention is cheaper than cure. Farming is no different. Stay ahead, and you’ll sleep better at night knowing your crop is safe.

Step 9: Monitor Your Farm and Keep Proper Records

If you’re not tracking what’s happening on your farm, you’re farming blind. Every serious agropreneur I’ve worked with learns this the hard way, or they learn it early and save themselves years of waste. Monitoring and record keeping are the quiet tools that drive long-term profitability.

Walk your farm regularly. Don’t leave everything to hired hands. You’re not just looking to see that the crops are growing; you’re checking for signs of pests, nutrient deficiencies, poor germination, and water stress. Catching small issues early prevents big losses later.

Then there’s the paperwork, or what I prefer to call your farm’s memory. Write down everything: when you planted, how much fertiliser you used, what chemicals you applied, how much it all cost, and even what the weather was like each week. These aren’t just notes. They’re data. And they help you figure out what worked, what didn’t, and what to do better next season.

Most failed farms didn’t fail because the soil was bad. They failed because the owner wasn’t paying attention. You can’t grow what you don’t manage.

Step 10: Harvest Right and Handle Your Grains With Care

This is the part every farmer looks forward to, but it is also where many lose a chunk of their profits. Soya beans are ready for harvest when the leaves turn yellow and drop, and the pods go brown and dry. Don’t wait too long, though. If the pods start to crack on the plant, you’ll lose seeds to shattering before you even get to the field.

Harvesting can be done manually or with a combine harvester, depending on your scale. If you’re harvesting by hand, do it early in the day when it’s cooler; dry pods shatter easily under the hot sun. Once harvested, thresh and clean the beans carefully to remove any debris, broken grains, or stones.

Then comes drying. This part is critical. Your beans should have a moisture content of about 12–13% before they go into storage. Anything higher and you risk mould, rot, or warehouse rejections. Sun-dry them thoroughly on clean tarpaulin or raised platforms. Don’t rush this. Drying is where you protect the value you’ve worked so hard to create.

Once dry, store in clean bags, stacked on wooden pallets in a cool, well-ventilated room. Keep them off the floor and away from moisture. Rats, humidity, and poor storage eat profit silently.

The market is ready. The buyers are out there. But only well-handled grain fetches a premium. So finish strong, because how you handle the harvest is just as important as how you started.

Step 11: Create a Marketing and Sales Plan

You’ve harvested. Your grains are clean, dry, and ready. Now what? This is where strategy truly pays off because farming doesn’t end in the field, it ends with a sale.

The good news is, soya beans production in Nigeria has strong market demand. From feed millers and food processors to exporters and wholesalers, there’s no shortage of buyers. But the real question is: Are you selling smart?

Timing your sale matters. Peak harvest season often comes with lower prices due to market glut, while prices tend to rise a few months later when supply tightens. If you have the storage capacity, holding off a bit can earn you more per tonne. You can also explore contracts with aggregators or processors before harvest, that way, you’re not scrambling when the market gets crowded.

And then there’s packaging, delivery, negotiation, it all adds up. That’s why having a proper sales strategy, mapped out clearly, saves you money, stress, and time. If sales planning isn’t your strong suit, it is okay to get support. Most entrepreneurs have had their marketing and sales plans professionally written by us to match their specific goals, and it made a difference in how they priced, pitched, and positioned their farm produce.

You’ve done the work. Don’t leave the money on the table. Sell like a business, not just a farmer.

Planting and Harvesting Seasons for Soya Beans in Nigeria

Knowing when to plant is just as important as knowing how to plant. In soya beans farming in Nigeria, timing can make or break your yield. The crop follows a natural rhythm, tied closely to rainfall and regional climate patterns. So, before you touch the soil or open that seed bag, you need to understand the planting and harvesting windows specific to your location.

Here we break down those critical periods, so you’re not guessing, but planning with precision.

Soya Beans Planting Season in Nigeria

The success of soya beans farming in Nigeria often begins with timing. The planting season usually falls between May and early July, depending on your location and the onset of rainfall. In the northern belt, Kaduna, Benue, Niger, and surrounding states, farmers typically begin planting in mid-May, once the rains become steady enough to support germination. Further south, planting may start a little later, often towards the end of May or early June.

The key is to catch the early part of the rainy season. It should not be too soon that the soil hasn’t absorbed enough moisture, and not too late that the crop struggles to mature before the rains taper off. Once the first good rains have softened the soil and created the right moisture balance, it is time to sow. Delaying beyond early July can significantly reduce your chances of a good harvest.

Soya Beans Harvesting Season in Nigeria

Soya beans mature between 90 and 110 days after planting, depending on the variety and local conditions. That means if you plant in May, you can expect to begin harvesting as early as late August in some northern zones. Most farms across Nigeria, however, reach full harvest around September to October.

The signs are easy to spot if you’re paying attention: the leaves turn yellow and drop, and the pods dry out to a crisp, light brown. That’s your cue to act. Leave it too long, and the pods begin to shatter on the plant, spilling your profits before you even get to the field. Harvesting should be done early in the day when it is still cool, especially if you’re working manually.

As always, proper timing protects your yield. Harvest too early, and you risk immature grains. Harvest too late, and you lose seeds to the wind. Like most things in business, it is about getting the balance right.

Best States for Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

The right environment makes farming easier. When it comes to soya beans farming in Nigeria, certain states offer better growing conditions than others; stable rainfall, fertile soil, and easier access to markets. If you want a farm that performs year after year, you need to be intentional about where you start.

Below are some of the best states for soya beans farming in Nigeria:

Kaduna State

Kaduna is often considered the heart of soya beans farming in Nigeria. With its loamy soils, reliable rainfall, and large expanse of arable land, it has become a hub for both smallholder farmers and commercial-scale producers. Many agro-processing companies source directly from Kaduna due to the consistency of supply, making it a smart choice for farmers who want access to strong buyer networks.

Benue State

Known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue is another hotspot for soya beans cultivation. The state’s well-distributed rainfall, rich soils, and strong agricultural culture make it ideal for farmers looking to scale. Many cooperatives and farmer groups operate here, which is helpful if you’re just starting and want to plug into a support system.

Niger State

Niger has become increasingly popular for legume cultivation, especially in its southern and central zones. The state boasts large swaths of fertile land and is relatively close to major grain markets in the North. It is a strong option for farmers looking to expand beyond subsistence into more structured agribusiness.

Plateau

Plateau offers cooler weather and reasonable rainfall, which work well for soya beans in the right locations. While not as large-scale as Kaduna or Benue, the farms here are productive, and for those targeting niche or higher-altitude markets, it is a location worth considering.

Cost of Starting Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

Starting a farm is not just about clearing land and scattering seeds; it is a business, and like any business, it comes with costs. If you want to take soya beans farming in Nigeria seriously, you need to sit with the numbers early.

The cost of starting varies depending on your location, the size of the land you’re working with, and whether you’re going manual or semi-mechanised. But to give you a realistic picture, let’s work with one hectare of land, the standard unit for planning in crop production.

Cost of Starting Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria (One Hectare)

Note: These figures are estimates meant to give you a realistic starting point. Actual costs can vary depending on your location, market prices at the time of purchase, labour availability, and whether you’re running a manual or semi-mechanised operation. The goal here is to help you plan with clarity, not to box you into a fixed budget. Always run your own numbers based on your specific situation.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

Getting the right tools in place makes farming less stressful and more efficient. You don’t need to buy everything at once, especially at the beginning. Start with what you need, then grow into more advanced equipment as your farm expands.

Hoe and Cutlass

These are the most common hand tools on Nigerian farms. You’ll use them for clearing land, planting, and basic weeding. They’re affordable, easy to maintain, and essential if you’re starting small.

Measuring Rope or Pegs

Used during planting to maintain even spacing between rows and plants. Proper spacing leads to uniform growth, better airflow, and easier weed control later on.

Hand Sprayer

A hand-pump sprayer helps apply herbicides, pesticides, or liquid fertilisers evenly and safely. It is ideal for small farms and gives you better control over where and how much you spray.

Wheelbarrow or Sack Barrow

Useful for transporting inputs like seeds and fertiliser, or for moving harvested pods around the farm. It cuts down on manual lifting and saves time during harvesting and weeding.

Drying Tarpaulin or Mats

You’ll need a clean, elevated surface for drying your beans after harvest. Tarpaulins or local mats help protect the grains from dirt, pests, and moisture damage during drying.

Tractor with Plough and Harrow

If you’re working on more than a few hectares, a tractor becomes necessary. It speeds up land preparation and helps you cover more ground efficiently. You don’t have to own one, many farmers lease tractors through cooperatives or service providers.

Seed Planter

A mechanical planter saves labour, ensures even seed depth, and reduces wastage. It is useful if you’re planting more than one hectare and want consistent results.

Boom Sprayer

This is a motorised sprayer used on medium to large farms. It allows you to apply pesticides or foliar fertilisers across wide areas quickly and evenly. Very useful during peak growth periods.

Threshing Machine

After harvest, separating seeds from pods manually is labour-intensive. A threshing machine reduces the time and effort required, and helps preserve seed quality.

Combine Harvester (For Commercial Scale)

For large-scale operations, a combine harvester handles harvesting, threshing, and cleaning all at once. It is a major investment, but it pays off in speed and efficiency if you’re operating at scale.

You don’t need to start with everything here. Begin with the basics, and as your farm grows, upgrade what matters most to your productivity. The goal is to build a system that works, not just a field with tools lying around.

How Profitable Is Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria?

Profitability in farming is never guaranteed, but it is never random either. With the right conditions, proper planning, and good market access, soya beans farming in Nigeria can be a consistently profitable venture. The key is to approach it as a business, not just a planting activity.

Let’s walk through what the numbers look like, based on one hectare of land.

Revenue Potential

Profit in farming begins with yield and market price. On a well-managed hectare using improved seed varieties, most farmers in Nigeria record an average yield of 1.5 to 2.5 tonnes. In soya-friendly states like Kaduna and Benue, some get even more, depending on rainfall, soil condition, and timing.

Market prices for soya beans fluctuate, but in 2024, the average farmgate price has stayed between ₦350,000 and ₦450,000 per tonne. If you hit a yield of 2 tonnes, you’re looking at a gross income of around ₦800,000, though some farmers who store their beans until the off-season sell at even higher rates.

Cost of Production

Of course, before profit comes investment. The average cost of cultivating one hectare of soya beans in Nigeria falls between ₦250,000 and ₦500,000, depending on how you operate. Land preparation, seeds, fertilisers, labour, pest control, and storage all contribute to this total. If you’re using mechanised equipment, you’ll spend more upfront, but you’ll also save time and labour costs in the long run.

Profit Estimate

Now let’s put the numbers together. Say you harvest 2 tonnes per hectare and sell at ₦400,000 per tonne, that gives you ₦800,000 in revenue. After deducting ₦250,000 in costs, you’re left with a net profit of ₦550,000. That’s a profit margin of about 68%. And this doesn’t even factor in additional income if you sell during the dry season when prices spike, or process your beans into value-added products.

Key Factors That Affect the Profitability of Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria

If you want to understand how much you can earn from soya beans farming in Nigeria, you also need to understand what determines your success. Here are the five core factors that shape how profitable your farm will be:

1. Seed Quality

Everything begins with the seed. If you get this part wrong, it doesn’t matter how good your soil is or how much you spend on fertiliser, you’ll struggle. Improved seed varieties like TGX 1448-2E or TGX 1835-10E are bred for higher yield, faster maturity, and stronger resistance to pests and diseases.

On the other hand, planting uncertified seeds from open markets is a gamble that rarely pays off. Good seeds don’t just grow better, they set the entire farm up for success.

2. Soil Fertility

Fertile, well-drained loamy soil reduces your reliance on external fertilisers and gives your plants a natural head start. If your soil is poor, your input costs go up, and your yield likely drops. That’s why smart farmers invest in basic soil testing and amend the land early if needed, with compost, lime, or targeted fertilisers. Good soil is not just a bonus, it is a long-term asset for your business.

3. Planting Time

Timing matters more than most people think. Soya beans are highly sensitive to rainfall patterns, so planting too early or too late can drastically cut your yield. The ideal planting window in Nigeria is between May and early July, depending on your region.

When you plant during the first good rains, when the soil has moisture but isn’t waterlogged, you give the seeds the best conditions to germinate and thrive.

4. Pest and Disease Control

Ignoring pest control is one of the quickest ways to lose money on a farm. Soya beans attract pests like aphids and pod borers, and are prone to diseases like rust and blight. If you monitor your field regularly and act early, you protect both your yield and your input investment. This doesn’t always mean spraying aggressively; it means knowing what to look for and having a plan in place when the first signs show up.

5. Market Access

You can grow the best crop in the world, but if you can’t sell it easily or at a good price, your profit disappears quickly. Farmers who operate near major buyers, aggregators, or processing companies often get better prices and faster payment.

Having a plan for who will buy your crop, and at what price, is just as important as your planting plan. It also helps to know when to sell. Off-season prices tend to be higher, so proper storage could mean more money in your pocket.

Together, these five factors determine how profitable your soya beans farm will be. You don’t have to master them all at once, but being aware of them puts you in a much stronger position to farm with intention, and not just luck.

Challenges of Soya Beans Farming in Nigeria And How to Overcome Them

Every business has its rough patches, and soya beans farming in Nigeria is no exception. But the good thing about farming challenges is this: most of them are predictable, which means they can be planned for and managed.

Below are the key obstacles farmers often face and, more importantly, what you can do about them.

1. Unpredictable Rainfall

Rainfall patterns in Nigeria have become harder to rely on, especially in recent years. Plant too early and your seeds may dry out. Plant too late, and your crop may not mature before the rains end.

Pay attention to local rainfall trends, not just assumptions based on previous years. If possible, talk to local extension officers or experienced farmers in your area before planting. Some farmers now use weather apps or partner with agro-services that send early-season alerts.

For larger operations, basic irrigation or water harvesting systems can help reduce dependency on rainfall.

2. Poor Soil Health

Many first-time farmers assume all land is good land. But if your soil is too acidic, compacted, or nutrient-poor, your yield will suffer no matter how good your seeds are.

Before planting, test your soil. Basic soil testing can tell you if your land needs lime, compost, or a specific fertiliser. Avoid planting on the same land season after season without replenishing nutrients. Crop rotation and organic composting can help bring tired soil back to life.

3. Pest and Disease Pressure

Soya beans attract a variety of pests and diseases, especially during the flowering and podding stages. Left untreated, they can wipe out your yield.

Scout your farm weekly, not just when something looks wrong. Early detection saves your crop and reduces the amount of chemicals needed. Use recommended insecticides and fungicides at the right dosage and time. Not every issue needs spraying, but when it does, act quickly. Also, plant certified seeds as they have better resistance to local threats.

4. Limited Access to Equipment and Labour

Manual farming is labour-intensive. And during peak periods like planting and harvesting, labour can be scarce or too expensive. For larger farms, lack of access to tractors or planters slows things down and affects timing.

Join or form a farming cluster or cooperative. Many communities now have shared access to tractors, sprayers, and harvesters through group ownership or rental services. Plan early, don’t wait until planting season to start sourcing equipment or labour. The earlier you book, the more options and better pricing you get.

5. Market Uncertainty and Price Fluctuations

Prices can crash during harvest season when supply floods the market. If you’re forced to sell immediately, you might earn less than you expected, even with a good yield.

Build a marketing plan before you plant. Who will buy? At what price? Can you store and sell later? Selling off-season usually brings better prices. You can also work with aggregators or cooperatives that help farmers bulk-sell at negotiated prices. And if you’re thinking long term, consider value addition like processing soya into oil, cake, or flour opens up new markets.

6. Limited Access to Capital

Farming costs money. From land prep to inputs, labour, and transport. Many farmers start strong but stall halfway due to cash flow issues.

Don’t start bigger than you can manage. Start lean, prove the model, then scale. Explore agric-specific funding schemes through the Bank of Agriculture, the Anchor Borrowers Programme, or local cooperatives. And make sure you have a solid business plan, as investors and lenders are more likely to support you when you’re clear on your numbers. If writing one is a challenge, consider getting professional support to do it right the first time.

Conclusion

Soya beans farming in Nigeria isn’t just a seasonal hustle, it is a long-term, profitable venture when done right. With growing demand from food processors, animal feed manufacturers, and export markets, the crop offers more than just one harvest. It gives you options to scale, to diversify, to add value, and to build a business that lasts.

But it’s not automatic. You need the right land, the right seeds, proper timing, and a clear strategy for your inputs and your sales. And more importantly, you need to treat it like the business it is with records, structure, and a growth plan.

If you’re willing to put in the work, this is one of the most accessible and scalable agribusiness opportunities in Nigeria today. Start lean, stay focused, and build smart; the market is waiting.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does soya beans take to mature in Nigeria?

Most improved varieties mature between 90 to 110 days after planting, depending on rainfall, soil condition, and seed type.

Which month is best to plant soybeans in Nigeria?

The best time to plant is between May and early July, just after the first steady rains begin. Planting outside this window may lead to lower yield.

How many tonnes of soya beans can I get from one hectare?

On average, you can expect 1.5 to 2.5 tonnes per hectare, using improved seeds and best practices. Some farmers achieve higher yields with good soil and proper timing.

How profitable is soya beans farming in Nigeria?

A well-managed hectare can earn you a net profit of ₦500,000 to ₦800,000, depending on your costs, yield, and selling price. Profitability improves with storage, off-season sales, or value addition.

Do I need to register a business to start soya beans farming?

If you’re farming for commercial purposes, yes. Registration helps with market access, funding, partnerships, and credibility.

Where can I buy certified soya beans seeds in Nigeria?

Certified seeds can be sourced from registered agro-dealers, IITA, NASC-approved seed companies, or reputable cooperatives. Avoid open-market seeds, they often give poor results.

Which state in Nigeria is the highest producer of soybeans?

Kaduna State leads the country in soya beans production. It has ideal growing conditions, a strong farming ecosystem, and active buyer networks, making it a top-performing state year after year.