Tinubu’s suspension of raw shea exports will unlock Nigeria’s Shea economy, says minister
Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, says President Bola Tinubu’s temporary suspension of raw shea exports is a strategic move to boost local processing and position Nigeria as a global leader in the shea industry.
Speaking at the 20th Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Northern Zonal Accountants’ Conference in Minna on Tuesday, Idris, represented by Jibrin Baba Ndace, director-general of the Voice of Nigeria, said the policy is designed to stimulate investment, create jobs, and strengthen rural economies.
“President Tinubu’s recent temporary suspension of raw shea exports is not a mere policy experiment, but a bold and forward-looking measure, aimed at unlocking the full potential of our rural economy,” Idris said in a statement.
“By insisting that more of our shea be processed locally, the president is ensuring that Nigeria, which accounts for over 50 percent of the world’s shea production, does not remain a supplier of raw materials but becomes a global leader in high-value shea products.”
The minister said Niger state, which is the hub of shea production in Nigeria, stands to benefit significantly from the initiative. He added that the move would drive technology transfer, expand processing capacity, create quality jobs for women and youth, and increase foreign exchange earnings.
Idris also commended the National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN) for supporting the initiative, noting that it aligns with Tinubu’s broader economic renewal agenda built on accountability, inclusivity, and national re-orientation.
The minister used the occasion to highlight other reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including infrastructure renewal, fiscal discipline, fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and digital transformation.
He urged accountants and professionals to become partners in advancing accountability and transparency, stressing that their expertise can help strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and drive sustainable development.
