RismadarVoice Reporters, June 5, 2026
Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group and Singapore-based Wilmar International have entered a landmark agreement to merge their operations in Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, forming a joint venture valued at an estimated $12 billion.
The partnership, structured as a 50:50 alliance, is aimed at consolidating both firms’ agricultural and food production businesses into a single integrated platform spanning oil palm cultivation, edible oils, rice production, nuts, and wider food manufacturing and distribution networks across West Africa.
In a joint statement, the companies said the merger would create one of the region’s largest agro-industrial and consumer food systems, designed to strengthen supply chains and expand access to essential food products in rapidly growing African markets.
Wilmar International Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kuok Hong, said the collaboration reflects the strategic importance of Nigeria and Benin as major consumer hubs on the continent.
He noted that combining Wilmar’s global production capabilities with TGI’s established manufacturing base and distribution reach would create a stronger platform to serve long-term regional demand.
“For more than four decades, TGI Group has built a leading position in Nigerian food manufacturing and distribution,” he said. “This partnership will leverage Wilmar’s global scale and expertise alongside TGI’s local knowledge to deliver innovative food solutions across Africa.”
TGI Group Vice Chairman, Farouk Gumel, described the deal as a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s economic prospects, stressing that it would boost local production capacity, support smallholder farmers, and create employment opportunities.
He added that the partnership would enhance domestic value addition and contribute significantly to improving food security in Nigeria and neighbouring markets.
Wilmar’s Africa Head, Santosh Pillai, also described the transaction as a strategic alignment between both organisations, noting that the combined strengths of the companies would improve efficiency and deepen market penetration.
According to the firms, the transaction is expected to be completed within the 2026 financial year, pending regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.
