FGExtends Shea Nut Export Ban to Boost Processing

President Tinubu approved a one-year extension of Nigeria's raw shea nut export ban, effective February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027. The directive aims to strengthen domestic value addition and reposition Nigeria's shea industry for higher export earnings through processed products. Key impacts include stimulating local manufacturing, creating jobs, and improving incomes in shea-producing communities. The policy requires all surplus production to channel through the Nigerian Commodity Exchange for transparency and fair pricing. Existing waivers for raw nut exports have been withdrawn. The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment will coordinate implementation with the Presidential Food Security Unit. Shea nuts, harvested across Nigeria's savanna belt, are used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals when processed into shea butter, which commands higher international prices than raw nuts.

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/02/26/president-tinubu-renews-raw-shea-nuts-export-ban-to-2027/