In Nigeria, the shea butter industry represents more than just a business—it’s a powerful force for empowering women, especially in rural communities. Women are at the heart of shea nut collection and processing, using their skills and hard work to support their families, strengthen local economies, and connect Nigeria to global markets.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria exported over 17,000 metric tons of shea products in 2023, valued at ₦20 billion ($14.5 million) (Daily Trust, 2023). This impressive contribution highlights both the importance of the shea industry to Nigeria’s economy and the critical role women play within it. But beyond revenue, this industry fosters social progress by:

• Creating Jobs for Women: Shea production provides a stable income for women, which strengthens families and uplifts entire communities (NBS, 2023).
• Promoting Gender Equality: Through initiatives like the Shea Nigeria Project, women gain the resources and opportunities they need to thrive, narrowing gender gaps in economic participation (Vanguard, 2022).
• Supporting Sustainable Trade: By focusing on ethically sourced and sustainably produced shea butter, Nigeria’s shea industry contributes to environmental conservation while meeting global demand (CBI, 2022).

Women continue to lead Nigeria’s shea industry, overseeing shea nut collection, processing, and initial production steps. These dedicated producers are not only experts in their craft but are the primary earners in many rural communities. Their efforts help sustain local economies and contribute to Nigeria’s presence in the international market for natural, sustainably sourced products (MEDA, 2023).

The Shea Nigeria Project: Empowering Women Producers

Recognizing the importance of women in the shea value chain, organizations such as the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) have launched initiatives to support and empower women producers. The Shea Nigeria Project (2022–2025) (Vanguard, 2022) focuses on building women’s skills in:

• Sustainable Production Techniques: Training women to adopt eco-friendly practices that enhance product quality and protect local ecosystems (CBI, 2022).
• Financial Management: Teaching financial skills that enable women to manage their earnings, reinvest in their businesses, and achieve long-term economic independence (CBI, 2022).
• Leadership and Market Access: Providing women with leadership skills and greater market access, helping them secure fair prices and reach new buyers (CBI, 2022).

This empowerment initiative is designed to improve product yields, enhance shea butter quality, and increase the market reach for women producers, helping them achieve economic growth and social empowerment.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Explore our range of ethically sourced shea products and join Shea Nigeria in empowering women across Nigeria’s rural communities. Together, we can support sustainable trade, promote gender equality, and make a meaningful difference for those who are the heart of the shea butter industry.

Contact Shea Nigeria today to learn more about partnership opportunities, discover our high-quality shea products, and take part in a movement that values empowerment, sustainability, and community growth.