Tinubu extends ban on raw shea nut export for one year
President Bola Tinubu has approved a one-year extension of the ban on the export of raw shea nuts, reinforcing the Federal Government’s push for industrial development and local value addition.
The extension takes effect from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.
The move is part of the administration’s broader economic strategy aimed at boosting domestic processing capacity and aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda. By restricting the export of raw shea nuts, the government hopes to strengthen local industries, improve livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and expand Nigeria’s value-added exports.
As part of the directive, the President authorised the two ministers of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, alongside the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit (PFSCU), to coordinate the implementation of a unified national framework for the shea value chain. The framework is expected to align industrialisation, trade and investment priorities using evidence-based strategies.
President Tinubu also approved the adoption of an export framework developed by the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) and ordered the withdrawal of all waivers previously granted for the direct export of raw shea nuts. Under the new directive, any surplus raw shea nuts may only be exported through the NCX framework and in line with approved guidelines.
In addition, the President directed the Federal Ministry of Finance to facilitate access to a dedicated NESS Support Window. This will enable the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to pilot a Livelihood Finance Mechanism aimed at strengthening production and processing capacity within the sector.
Shea nuts, harvested from the shea tree commonly found in Nigeria’s savanna belt, are processed into shea butter — a key ingredient in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and cooking oil. According to government estimates, processed shea butter can fetch between 10 and 20 times the price of raw nuts, making local processing significantly more profitable.
The Federal Government said the policy underscores its commitment to inclusive growth, local manufacturing and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in global agricultural value chains.
