Nigeria, Sept. 4 -- Despite producing nearly two-fifths of global shea nuts, Nigeria earns less than 1 per cent in the $6.5 billion market, Nigeria's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has said.

Mr Kyari disclosed this while speaking at the Africa Food Systems Forum (#AFSForum2025) in Dakar, Senegal, on Wednesday.

This move, he said, aims to create rural jobs, empower women, and establish Nigeria as a major player in the refined shea products market.

"President Tinubu highlighted that despite Nigeria producing nearly two-fifths of global shea, the country earns less than 1 per cent of the $6.5 billion market. We are committed to reversing that imbalance.

"By banning raw shea nut exports and steering investments...