To Boost Local Production, Create Jobs, Tinubu Okays Immediate Six-month Ban on Raw Shea Export

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a six-month ban on the export of raw shea nuts in Nigeria to boost local production and create jobs. The ban, effective immediately, aims to increase Nigeria's shea value chain and generate around $300 million annually in the short term.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the directive, stating that it is part of the government's policy to secure raw materials for processing factories, boost rural income, and create job opportunities. Nigeria currently produces nearly 40% of the global shea product but only holds a 1% market share, which is deemed unacceptable.

The ban is a collective decision to transform Nigeria from an exporter of raw shea nuts to a global supplier of refined shea butter and oil derivatives, with a focus on gender empowerment and rural transformation. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, highlighted the potential benefits of the ban, as Nigeria stands to capture a significant share of the projected $.