President Tinubu Extends Ban on Raw Shea Nut Exports to 2027
President Bola Tinubu has officially 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. This decision was announced by the presidency in a statement released on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, just hours before the expiration of the previous six-month ban that had been in effect since August 26, 2025.
Commitment to Industrial Development and Value Addition
In the statement, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, emphasized that this move highlights the administration's dedication to advancing industrial development, strengthening domestic value addition, and supporting the goals of the 'Renewed Hope' Agenda. "The ban aims to deepen processing capacity within Nigeria, enhance livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and promote the growth of Nigerian exports anchored on value-added products," the statement reads.
Implementation of a Unified National Framework
To further these objectives, President Tinubu has authorized the two Ministers of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, along with the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit (PFSCU), to coordinate the implementation of a unified, evidence-based national framework. This framework is designed to align industrialisation, trade, and investment priorities across the shea nut value chain, ensuring a cohesive approach to boosting the sector.
Adoption of Export Framework and Withdrawal of Waivers
Onanuga also noted that President Tinubu approved the adoption of an export framework established by the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) and the withdrawal of all waivers that previously allowed the direct export of raw shea nuts. Additionally, the president directed that any excess supply of raw shea nuts should be exported exclusively through the NCX framework, in strict accordance with the approved guidelines, to maintain control and promote fair trade practices.
Financial Support for Production and Processing
Furthermore, President Tinubu directed the Federal Ministry of Finance to provide access to a dedicated NESS Support Window. This will enable the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to pilot a Livelihood Finance Mechanism aimed at strengthening production and processing capacity within the shea nut industry, thereby supporting local manufacturers and processors.
Onanuga reiterated that the Federal government remains steadfast in its commitment to policies that promote inclusive growth, local manufacturing, and position Nigeria as a competitive participant in global agricultural value chains. This extension is seen as a strategic step towards achieving these long-term economic and developmental goals.
