Tinubu’s shea policy to position Nigeria as global leader – FG

The Federal Government has described President Bola Tinubu’s recent suspension of raw shea exports as a bold and strategic move to unlock the full economic potential of Nigeria’s shea industry and establish the country as a global leader in the sector.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this on Tuesday in Minna, Niger State, while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the 20th Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Northern Zonal Accountants’ Conference.

Represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, the minister said the policy is not a mere experiment but a forward-looking initiative designed to strengthen the rural economy.

“By insisting that more of our shea be processed locally, the President is ensuring that Nigeria, which accounts for over 50% of the world’s shea production, does not remain a supplier of raw materials but becomes a global leader in high-value shea products,” Idris said.

He explained that Niger State, the hub of shea production in Nigeria, stands to benefit significantly from the policy through increased investment, technology transfer, job creation, and greater participation in global value chains.

Idris commended the National Shea Products Association of Nigeria (NASPAN) for supporting the President’s vision, assuring that the government would continue to provide an enabling environment for growth.

The minister stressed that the shea policy is part of Tinubu’s broader economic renewal agenda anchored on accountability, inclusivity, and national re-orientation.

Speaking on the theme of the ICAN conference, “Socio-Economic Potentials, Accountability and National Re-Orientation: Unlocking Nigeria’s Future,” Idris emphasized the need for citizens to live by the right values, hold institutions accountable, and put national interest first.

He also highlighted reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, such as fiscal discipline, infrastructure renewal, digital transformation, and youth empowerment.

Projects like the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, Badagry–Sokoto Superhighway, rehabilitation of the Eastern rail corridor, and the creation of Regional Development Commissions were cited as examples of equitable resource distribution.

Idris further noted Nigeria’s progress on the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index—improving from 145th position in 2023 to 140th in 2024—saying it reflects the government’s success in blocking leakages and promoting accountability.

He urged accountants and professionals to serve as partners in driving accountability and national renewal, assuring that the government remains committed to transparency, good governance, and sustainable development.