Tinubu has halted the export of raw shea nuts to strengthen Nigeria’s agriculture.
The policy compels local processing, aiming to create jobs, attract investment, and boost exports.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate halt to the export of raw shea nuts, signaling a decisive move to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The policy, which takes effect without delay, is aimed at ensuring that shea nuts are processed locally before leaving the country.
According to senior government officials, the directive is part of broader efforts to stimulate domestic industries, increase employment, and enhance Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings through value-added products rather than raw commodities. “This policy shift is designed to create jobs and encourage investment in local processing plants, so that Nigeria reaps the full benefit of its natural resources,” a government representative explained.
The officials further noted that new monitoring and enforcement frameworks would be introduced to guarantee strict adherence to the order. Exporters and other stakeholders in the agricultural value chain are expected to adjust quickly to the new reality, as the federal government has promised to provide support and guidance during the transition.
Nigeria is one of the world’s largest producers of shea nuts, which are processed into shea butter, an ingredient widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food industries. However, much of the harvest has historically been shipped abroad in its raw form, denying the country higher returns that come with refined products.
Analysts say the suspension of raw exports, if implemented effectively, could transform the industry by attracting investment in processing facilities, improving skills, and promoting rural development in shea-producing states. The policy is also seen as aligning with the administration’s push for economic diversification and industrialization.
