In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s shea industry and strengthen its economy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a six-month suspension of raw shea nut exports. This decision aims to secure supply for local processors, create much-needed jobs, and protect the value chain, notably benefiting women who make up 95% of the shea nut pickers.
During his announcement, President Tinubu highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s shea industry, stating, “Nigeria’s shea is our green wealth. We produce nearly 40% of the world’s supply, yet capture less than 1% of its $6.5 billion global market. That imbalance ends now.” The president emphasized that this export freeze, recommended by the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit, will help stimulate domestic processing capacity while improving the livelihoods of farmers and female workers.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has been tasked with collaborating with stakeholders to rapidly expand local processing facilities, ensuring the reform yields long-term prosperity.
In a visionary outlook, President Tinubu declared, “With new market access opening in Brazil and beyond, we will no longer export poverty and import value. We will create value at home, compete abroad, and deliver prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
This policy marks a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s shea sector from a raw material exporter into a global competitor in value-added shea products, strengthening the economy and empowering women across the country.