‘How Nigeria can dominate $3.8b shea butter market’

As government intensifies efforts to promote its diversification agenda, the National Shea Product Association of Nigeria (NASPAN), has charged the Federal Government and stakeholders on the need to promote quality production of the commodity if the nation will dominate the Shea butter market.

According to the association, if the commodity is properly harnessed, an export potential of $3.8 billion can be realised on yearly basis by the federal government.

Vice-President, National Shea Product Association of Nigeria, NASPAN, Mrs Mobola Sagoe noted that despite Nigeria’s great potential in the Shea industry, it is currently lagging behind its less endowed neighbours in optimally harnessing the commodity as an export commodity.

“Over 15 million women across West Africa participate directly in the Shea industry. Challenges faced in the industry poses a high risk for government swift in intervention. Nigeria’s estimated yearly loss to smuggling of exportable Shea produce to the global market is about N345 billion or $2.2 billion.

“Shea is found in 21 states in Nigeria but we can only identify four states – Niger, Kebbi, Oyo and Kwara – that produce quality Shea that can be exported. If we are not able to export, then we cannot change the economy. Even the local market is big enough now because the cosmetics industry is growing so fast. If they can all use Shea, you will be amazed at how that alone will change the economy before we talk of exporting.

“If we get the government on our side to improve the quality, train more women in the rural areas, we will achieve much, she said.