Nigeria Imposes Ban on Wood Export to Curb Deforestation

By Edward Thomas

The Federal Government of Nigeria has imposed a nationwide ban on the export of wood and allied products, effective immediately. This decision was announced by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, during the 18th meeting of the National Council on Environment in Katsina State. The ban aims to curb illegal logging and deforestation, which have contributed to the country’s environmental degradation.

The ban is backed by a Presidential Executive Order, titled “Presidential Executive Order on the Prohibition of Exportation of Wood and Allied Products, 2025,” signed by President Bola Tinubu. The order relies on Sections 17(2) and 20 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empower the state to protect the environment, forests, and wildlife, and prevent the exploitation of natural resources for private gain.

Nigeria’s forests are crucial for environmental sustainability, providing clean air and water, supporting livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate change. The ban is expected to help preserve the country’s shrinking forest cover and address climate change. “Nigeria’s forests are central to environmental sustainability, providing clean air and water, supporting livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, and playing a critical role in reducing the impact of climate change,” Minister Lawal stated.

All previously issued licenses and permits for wood extraction and exportation have been suspended and declared invalid. Security agencies and relevant ministries are expected to enforce a total clampdown on illegal logging activities nationwide.