
The Federal Government has declared an end to the export of raw shea nuts, aiming instead to promote industrialization and value addition within the country. This policy shift was announced by the Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, at the Shea 2026: Beyond Borders conference in Accra, Ghana. Nigeria, which produces nearly 40 percent of the global shea supply, currently captures only about one percent of the $6.5 billion global market due to exporting raw nuts. Processed shea butter sells for 10 to 20 times the price of raw nuts. The government seeks to increase processed shea earnings from an estimated $65 million to $300 million in the near term, with a potential growth to $3 billion by 2027. An initial six-month ban on raw shea nut exports was implemented in August 2025, and President Tinubu extended this ban for another year on February 26, 2026, moving the deadline to the end of February 2027. Under the extension, all shea exports must pass through the Nigeria Commodity Exchange framework. Other West African countries, including Burkina Faso, Mali, C么te d鈥橧voire, Togo, and Ghana, have also imposed or phased in bans on raw shea exports. At the Accra conference, Nigeria's Ali Saidu was appointed the new Chair of the Global Shea Alliance, marking the first time a Nigerian has led the organization. The Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit highlighted Nigeria's commitment to regional coordination to ensure Africa captures greater value from shea, noting that rur
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Must ReadThe Christian Association of Nigeria CAN declared a nationwide Black Sunday to honor victims of insecurity across the country, describing the situation as a national tragedy. CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, stated that the observance aimed to mourn those affected by violence, terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry. The association emphasized that the nation is bleeding and the Church cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost. Coinciding with Democracy Day, CAN highlighted that security is central to Nigeria鈥檚 democratic journey, as democracy is founded on the sanctity of human life and the protection of citizens. The Christian body expressed solidarity with bereaved families and victims, praying for comfort and justice. CAN urged all levels of government to take urgent and sustained measures to address security challenges, emphasizing that protecting citizens is a sacred responsibility. Churches and faith-based organizations were advised to strengthen security measures, enhance awareness, and collaborate with local security networks. CAN encouraged Nigerians to remain united in pursuit of peace, justice, and national healing, and to continue praying for the nation and supporting affected communities.

The All Progressives Congress has finalized its candidate list for the 2027 general elections, rejecting calls for a review of primary results despite numerous petitions. Meanwhile, former army generals have expressed outrage following the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, who died in captivity after being abducted by bandits. They attribute his death to the Federal Government's failure to address worsening insecurity. In other news, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board has released the names of successful applicants for paramilitary recruitment. An independent panel investigating the detention of Okuneye Olanrewaju, known as Bobrisky, revealed he was held in a soundproof cell and enjoyed special privileges, including mobile phone use. Additionally, many Fulani settlers are reportedly abandoning communities in southern Nigeria due to alleged ethnic profiling and increasing insecurity, with some host communities accusing them of complicity in terrorism and banditry.

AC Milan is nearing the appointment of a new head coach, with R煤ben Amorim reportedly prepared to accept all conditions discussed with the club. The Portuguese manager is said to be fully aligned with Milan鈥檚 sporting project and is awaiting final approval from the club. According to Fabrizio Romano, Amorim has informed Milan of his willingness to proceed under the terms presented during recent talks. The 41-year-old views managing the Italian club as an attractive next step in his career and is eager to take charge at San Siro. Milan has been evaluating several candidates, and while discussions with Amorim have progressed positively, the final decision rests with the club鈥檚 leadership. Club officials are expected to make a definitive call soon, with Amorim on standby for the final go-ahead.