Tinubu Suspends Raw Shea Exports, Moves To Boost Local Processing

Tinubu Suspends Raw Shea Exports, Moves To Boost Local Processing

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  • August 29, 2025
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a six-month suspension of raw shea exports as part of sweeping reforms to expand Nigeria’s share in the global shea industry and unlock new opportunities for farmers and women in the value chain.

Announcing the decision on Thursday, the President described Nigeria’s shea as the nation’s “green wealth,” noting that while the country produces nearly 40 percent of the world’s supply, it captures less than one percent of the $6.5 billion global market.

“That imbalance ends now,” Tinubu declared, stressing that the ban will ensure local processors have access to sufficient raw materials, create jobs, and strengthen a value chain where 95 percent of pickers are women.

He explained that the reform, recommended by the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit, is aimed at turning shea into a driver of inclusive economic growth.
“This is a win for our farmers, for our women, and for Nigeria,” the President said.

Tinubu added that Vice President Kashim Shettima will work closely with industry stakeholders to rapidly expand domestic processing capacity and guarantee that the policy delivers lasting prosperity.

The President also pointed to new market opportunities emerging in Brazil and other regions, underscoring that Nigeria must stop exporting raw materials at low value while importing finished products at higher costs.

“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,” Tinubu affirmed.

Analysts say the move could reposition Nigeria as a global shea powerhouse, given its natural advantage and rising demand for shea products in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.