By RismadarVoice Media
December 21, 2025
Nigerian timber merchants and sawmill operators exported wood and charcoal worth N772.07 billion to African countries between 2020 and the third quarter of 2025, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed.
West African neighbours accounted for the bulk of the trade.
Analysis of NBS data shows exports of fuel wood, hardwood, charcoal, and coniferous wood rose sharply, peaking in 2024 at N262.92 billion, a 194.9% jump from 2023, before moderating slightly to N245.21 billion between January and September 2025.
The surge reflects strong regional demand amid energy shortages and construction activity.
Exports were relatively modest in 2020 at N18.82 billion however surged to N89.69 billion in 2021, dipped to N66.26 billion in 2022, and rebounded to N89.17 billion in 2023.
Quarterly data showed consistent growth from 2023 onwards, highlighting the trade’s momentum, prior to regulatory interventions.
On Wednesday, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, announced an immediate nationwide ban on the export of wood and allied products, revoking all previous licences and permits.
The ban, backed by a Presidential Executive Order gazetted in October 2025, aims to curb illegal logging, prevent the rapid depletion of Nigeria’s forests.
“Nigeria’s forests are central to environmental sustainability, providing clean air and water, supporting livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change,” Lawal said, warning that continued exports threatened these vital resources.
Security agencies, relevant ministries have been directed to enforce the clampdown.
The policy reversal contrasts sharply with 2023, when the Federal Government conditionally lifted restrictions on wood and charcoal exports to boost foreign exchange earnings from a global market estimated at $158.35 billion.
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has welcomed the ban, describing it as a strategic move towards retaining raw materials, stabilize prices, promote local value addition.
Ngozi Oyewole, Chairperson of MAN’s Wood and Wood Products/Furniture Sectoral Group, said the policy would support local manufacturers, create jobs, enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian-made furniture, both domestically and internationally.
The ban signals a renewed commitment to balancing economic activity with environmental protection, industrial growth, sustainable management of natural resources.
