Top 10 Farms In Nigeria And Their Owners: A Look At The Country's Agricultural Leaders

Before Nigeria discovered crude oil, agriculture was the backbone of its economy, providing abundant food and economic stability. Hunger was rare, typically arising only in extreme situations. However, with the oil boom, the nation's focus shifted from agriculture to the oil and gas industry. This transition led many graduates in fields like Agricultural Science, Soil Science, Agricultural Extension, and Agricultural Economics to pursue white-collar jobs in sectors such as banking and oil. Yet, those who remained in agriculture are now reaping substantial rewards, with their products reaching both local and international markets.

This shift underscores the ongoing potential of agriculture, perhaps even surpassing other sectors in viability. A well-planned investment in agriculture is far from futile, as evidenced by the remarkable success stories of Nigerian farmers. Many of these farmers have built impressive legacies, offering models worth emulating. Interestingly, many of these successful farmers are also influential figures in politics.

Here’s a look at some of Nigeria’s most prominent farmers:

1. Olusegun Obasanjo (Obasanjo Farms)

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is not only a retired military officer and politician but also a successful farmer. His Ota Farm, also known as Obasanjo Farms, was inaugurated on October 8, 1979, shortly after he handed over power to a civilian government. The farm began with impressive facilities, including large poultry houses and feed mills, and has since expanded significantly. Today, Obasanjo Farms employs thousands and generates significant revenue, with branches in various locations across Nigeria. The farm has played a crucial role in advancing agriculture and food production in the country.

2. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Maizube Farms)

General Abdulsalami Abubakar, a former military head of state, is also a notable figure in Nigerian agriculture. His Maizube Farms, located in Minna, Niger State, spans 500 hectares and includes both livestock and crop sections. The farm is a key source of food and agricultural products in Nigeria, contributing to the country's food security. Abubakar balances his agricultural pursuits with his peacekeeping efforts across Africa.

3. Murtala Nyako (Sebore Farms)

Former Adamawa State Governor, Vice Admiral Murtala Nyako, is a distinguished farmer and owner of Sebore Farms in Mayo-Belwa, Adamawa State. Nyako's agricultural journey began with cattle farming, which he expanded into a successful integrated commercial farm. His farm is known for its horticultural crops, particularly mangoes, and has made significant strides in modern agriculture. Nyako is also involved in the production of other fruits and livestock, making him a leading figure in Nigerian agriculture.

4. Usman Dantata Jr. (Anadariya Farms)

Usman Dantata Jr., a member of the famous Dantata family, has revitalized Anadariya Farms, a large poultry farm in Kano State. Under his leadership, the farm has expanded its operations to include hatcheries, broiler and layer production, feed production, and poultry product processing. With his background in investment and banking, Dantata Jr. has successfully positioned Anadariya Farms as one of Nigeria's most productive agricultural enterprises.

5. Sir Joseph I.A Arumemi-Ikhide (Ojemai Farms)

Ojemai Farms Limited, owned by Sir J.I.A. Arumemi-Ikhide, chairman of Arik Air, is a modern farm with a focus on livestock production. Established in 1984 in Edo State, the farm initially specialized in pork and turkey meat but has since diversified into broilers, catfish, and other animal products. Ojemai Farms is now one of Nigeria's largest and most impactful farms.

6. Arinze Onebunne (Jovana Farms)

Prince Arinze Onebunne, CEO of Jovana Farms in Lagos, is a prominent figure in animal farming in Nigeria. His farm specializes in raising grass cutters, rabbits, quail, and other animals, and he is a sought-after trainer and consultant in the industry. Onebunne's expertise in modern livestock farming has earned him a reputation as one of Nigeria's leading agricultural entrepreneurs.

7. Dr. Olatunde Agbato (Animal Care Services Konsult)

Dr. Olatunde Agbato, a veterinary doctor, founded Animal Care Services Konsult in 1979. Located in Ogun State, the company is a major player in commercial poultry production, livestock feed milling, and animal health services. Agbato's dedication to veterinary medicine and agriculture has made Animal Care a leader in Nigeria's agricultural sector.

8. Abdullahi Adamu (Nagari Integrated Dairy Farm)

Nagari Integrated Dairy, owned by Senator Abdullahi Adamu, is one of Africa's largest integrated dairy farms. Located in Nasarawa State, the farm spans 1,200 hectares and houses 7,000 Holstein cattle. The farm is renowned for its high-quality dairy products and has set a benchmark for modern dairy farming in Nigeria.

9. Alhaji Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo (Folawiyo Farms Limited)

Folawiyo Farms Limited, founded by the late Alhaji Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo, is an integrated agricultural enterprise with operations across Nigeria. The farm is involved in livestock farming, fish farming, flour milling, and agricultural consultancy. Folawiyo's business acumen has established Folawiyo Farms as a leading name in Nigerian agriculture.

10. Peter Adeniyi (Anu-Oluwa Farms)

Peter Adeniyi's Anu-Oluwa Farms in Ibadan is one of Nigeria's largest poultry and egg production farms. The farm also deals in livestock feeds, day-old chicks, and livestock vaccines, making it a significant player in the Nigerian agricultural market. Adeniyi's success in poultry farming underscores the potential for growth in Nigeria's agricultural sector.

Conclusion

These farmers exemplify the enormous potential within Nigeria's agricultural industry, demonstrating that strategic investments in this sector can lead to substantial returns and lasting legacies