**President Tinubu Extends Raw Shea Nut Export Ban to Boost Local Industry** Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has given the green light for an additional year of restricting the export of raw shea nuts, effective from February 26, 2026, to February 25, 2027. This move aligns with the administration's drive to accelerate industrial growth, promote domestic value addition, and achieve the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda. By banning the raw export of shea nuts, President Tinubu aims to increase processing capacity within the country, improve livelihoods in shea-producing communities, and foster the growth of Nigerian exports based on value-added products. To further these goals, the President has tasked the Ministers of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Presidential Food Security Coordination Unit, to develop a unified national framework that harmonises industrialisation, trade, and investment priorities across the shea nut value chain. To ensure compliance, the President has directed the withdrawal of all waivers allowing the direct export of raw shea nuts. Any excess supply of raw shea nuts must now be exported exclusively through the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX) framework, in accordance with approved guidelines. This measure is expected to create a level playing field and prevent the exploitation of local shea nut producers. The extraction of shea nuts is a vital source of income for many communities in Nigeria's Savannah region, with the oil-rich fruits being a raw material for Shea butter, renowned for its moisturising and antioxidant properties. By processing shea nuts locally into butter, Nigerian manufacturers can command a higher price, potentially up to 20 times that of the raw nuts. President Tinubu's decision reflects the Federal Government's commitment to promoting inclusive growth, local manufacturing, and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in global agricultural value chains. With this extension, the administration is taking a significant step towards achieving its objectives and empowering local shea nut producers to thrive.