Nigeria Extends Ban on Raw Shea Nut Export for One Year
By Naija Enquirer Staff
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts for an additional year, from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027.
The move reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating industrial development, strengthening domestic value addition, and advancing the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Boosting Local Processing and Industrialisation
The extension aims to deepen Nigeria’s processing capacity within the shea value chain, enhance livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and promote the growth of exports driven by value-added products rather than raw commodities.
To ensure effective implementation, President Tinubu authorised the two Ministers of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, alongside the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit (PFSCU), to coordinate a unified, evidence-based national framework. The framework is expected to align industrialisation, trade, and investment priorities across the shea nut value chain.
Adoption of NCX Export Framework
The President also approved the adoption of an export framework established by the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) and directed the immediate withdrawal of all waivers previously allowing the direct export of raw shea nuts.
Under the new directive, any excess supply of raw shea nuts must be exported exclusively through the NCX framework in accordance with approved national guidelines.
Financial Support for Producers
Additionally, the President directed the Federal Ministry of Finance to provide access to a dedicated NESS Support Window. This initiative will enable the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to pilot a Livelihood Finance Mechanism aimed at strengthening production and processing capacity across the sector.
Why Shea Nut Processing Matters
Shea nuts, the oil-rich fruits harvested from the shea tree common across Nigeria’s Savanna belt, serve as the raw material for shea butter. Shea butter is widely known for its moisturising, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a key ingredient in cosmetic products for skin and hair care, as well as in edible cooking oil.
According to government data, processed shea butter can fetch between 10 and 20 times the price of raw shea nuts, highlighting the economic value of local processing.
Driving Inclusive Growth
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to policies that promote inclusive economic growth, expand local manufacturing, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in global agricultural value chains.
