Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s temporary suspension of raw shea exports, describing it as a strategic measure to unlock the country’s economic potential in the shea industry. Speaking at the 20th Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria Northern Zonal Accountants’ Conference in Minna, Niger State, Idris noted that the move aims to position Nigeria as a global leader in the shea economy.
The minister, who was represented by the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, explained that the suspension is designed to stimulate local investment, drive technology transfer, and accelerate the development of processing capacity. By processing more shea locally, Nigeria can move beyond being a supplier of raw materials and become a major player in high-value shea products. Niger State, which accounts for a significant portion of the country’s shea production, is expected to benefit greatly from this initiative.
Idris emphasized that the policy is part of the president’s broader economic renewal drive, which focuses on accountability, national re-orientation, and inclusivity. He praised the National Shea Products Association of Nigeria for embracing the president’s vision and assured that the federal government is committed to providing an enabling environment to support the industry.
The minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to promote accountability and transparency, citing the construction of major infrastructure projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway and the Badagry-Sokoto Superhighway. He noted that these projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to equitable resource distribution and fairness.
Furthermore, Idris pointed to the country’s improvement in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, which has moved from 145th position in 2023 to 140th in 2024. He attributed this progress to the diligent implementation of key policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate.
The minister called on accountants and other professionals to partner with the government in promoting accountability and transparency, stressing that their expertise and example can inspire a new culture of accountability that will strengthen the nation’s democracy and drive sustainable development. With the government’s commitment to transparency and good governance, Nigeria is poised to unlock its vast economic potential and achieve significant progress in the years to come.
