President Bola Tinubu has ordered a temporary suspension of raw shea nut exports.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, disclosed the directive on Tuesday.

Kyari said the ban takes immediate effect, explaining that it is intended to encourage local processing and add value within Nigeria.

He noted that the move reflects a wider West African strategy to strengthen the agro-industrial base and raise export earnings by prioritising processed over raw products.

The minister added that the decision aligns with measures in countries like Ghana and Burkina Faso, which have imposed phased or indefinite restrictions on raw shea nut exports to boost domestic processing and create jobs in the sector.

Vice President Kashim Shettima is spearheading discussions with key industry stakeholders to implement the order and ensure adherence to the new directive.