The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) says Nigeria’s Shea industry is on the path of economic breakthrough with a production capacity exceeding one million metric tonnes.
Prof. Nnanyelugo Ike-Mounso, the Director-General of RMRDC, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday, that this milestone would position Nigeria as a major player in the global shea market.
The RMRDC boss, noted that it was in collaboration with both local and foreign investors to leverage the opportunities presented by the recent temporary ban on shea nut exports.
Ike-Mounso highlighted that the collaboration would foster the development of industrial clusters and maximise the value chain of shea products.
“These products, derived from the raw materials, are essential for the production of butter, oil, medicines, cosmetics, and various other items.
“The establishment of these clusters is expected to stimulate economic activities in the shea-producing regions, creating a ripple effect that benefits local communities and businesses alike,’’ he said.
According to him, to ensure the success of this initiative, the RMRDC will undertake a comprehensive mapping of shea belts across the country and implement capacity-building programmes for stakeholders in the sector.
He disclosed that 10,000 hectares of land have been mapped for the cultivation of shea and called on more states to support the initiative.
“We are also calling on the 21 states with favorable advantage in shea production to support this initiative by providing more land to boost production.
“RMRDC’s collaboration with investors is poised to create substantial employment opportunities and reduce the reliance on foreign exchange through raw material exports.
“By prioritising local processing, Nigeria can shift from exporting raw shea nuts to exporting higher-value processed shea products.
“This shift will not only increase export revenues, but also stimulate the growth of local industries, foster innovation, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the Nigerian economy,’’he said.
NAN reports that President Bola Tinubu recently approved a six-month temporary ban on the export of raw shea nut to curb informal trade, boost local processing, protect and grow Nigeria’s shea industry.
