Tinubu Approves Extension Of Ban On Raw Shea Nut Export For One Year

Bola Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the federal government’s ban on the export of raw shea nuts, reinforcing efforts to strengthen local processing and boost value addition within Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The decision, announced by the federal authorities, aims to encourage domestic industries to process shea nuts into higher-value products such as shea butter and other derivatives before export.

Officials say the move is designed to stimulate job creation, enhance foreign exchange earnings, and reduce the country’s dependence on exporting raw agricultural commodities.

Driving Local Industrial Growth

The shea industry plays a critical role in Nigeria’s non-oil export portfolio, particularly in the northern region where the crop is widely cultivated. By restricting the export of unprocessed shea nuts, the government intends to ensure that more of the value chain remains within the country.

Industry stakeholders have long argued that exporting raw shea nuts deprives Nigeria of significant revenue that could be generated through local refining and manufacturing.

Processed shea products, including shea butter used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food industries, command higher prices in international markets.

The extension of the ban is therefore seen as part of a broader industrialization strategy focused on value addition and economic diversification.

Impact on Farmers and Exporters

While the policy is expected to benefit local processors, it may present short-term adjustments for exporters who previously relied on raw nut shipments. However, authorities maintain that the long-term gains including improved processing capacity and expanded market opportunities outweigh immediate challenges.

Women, who form a large percentage of participants in shea collection and processing, are also expected to benefit from increased domestic production activities. Analysts say strengthening the value chain could translate into better income stability for rural communities.

Aligning with Economic Reform Agenda

The extension aligns with President Tinubu’s wider economic reform agenda aimed at boosting local production, strengthening manufacturing, and increasing non-oil exports.

By encouraging in-country processing, the administration hopes to position Nigeria as a stronger player in global agricultural markets.

With the ban now extended for another year, attention will turn to how effectively stakeholders leverage the opportunity to expand processing facilities, improve quality standards, and scale up exports of finished shea products.

The move underscores a clear policy direction: Nigeria is seeking to shift from raw material exportation to value-driven industrial growth.