The Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics Ltd/GTE has called on the Federal Government to clarify the recent ban on raw shea nut exports, saying that clarity, patience, and sound coordination will determine whether the policy becomes a success story or another missed opportunity.

To be honest, the stakes feel bigger than many people realise. A sudden policy shift touches farmers in remote communities, processors trying to grow, exporters with contracts on the line, and investors quietly asking whether Nigeria is predictable enough for long term plans.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye, the Alliance acknowledged that the policy objective is noble. The administration wants to encourage local processing, retain value within the country, and build what could become a multibillion dollar industry. Done well, the shea sector could support manufacturing, rural development, jobs for women, and new export earnings.

But the Alliance warned that good intentions are not enough. According to Oye, abrupt bans without clear guidelines or a realistic transition period risk triggering chaos. Farmers may lose income. Exporters may default on contracts. Investors might pause projects. And Nigeria’s image as a reliable trading partner could take a hit.

“We need to draw attention to the potential risks of poor implementation of a good policy,” he said. “A clear communication strategy, phased implementation with measurable milestones, and multi stakeholder consultations are essential to avoid losses and ensure smooth transition.”

The Alliance proposed a pragmatic path. Rather than enforcing an immediate blanket ban, government could introduce a phased rollout. During the transition, unsold raw stock could be purchased by government-backed agencies to stabilize the market and discourage smuggling. At the same time, local processors should receive financing, training, power support, and technical assistance so they can actually absorb the increased volume.

This approach is not theoretical. Countries like Ghana, Malaysia, and India took gradual steps when shifting from raw commodity exports to processed products. Producers had time to upgrade machinery, improve packaging, and meet international quality standards. Contracts were honored while systems caught up.

For Nigeria, the Alliance believes the roadmap should include a defined timeline, targets for local processing capacity, and ongoing dialogue with farmers, cooperatives, exporters, and international buyers. Predictable rules give confidence. Sudden shocks do the opposite.

There is also a credibility question. Global buyers need assurance that Nigeria will not change rules overnight. Consistent policy signals build trust. And trust, eventually, attracts capital.

“We believe in the potential of Nigeria’s shea industry,” Oye noted. “But policy changes must be guided by robust monitoring, digital market intelligence, and stakeholder feedback. A managed transition will help build a sustainable, thriving shea sector that benefits all Nigerians.”

Maybe that is the real lesson here. Development is not just about bold announcements. It is about thoughtful execution, patient collaboration, and policies that protect the weakest link in the chain while still pushing the country forward.