FG Imposes Immediate Nationwide Ban On Export Of Wood And Allied Products

The Federal Government has announced an immediate nationwide ban on the export of wood and related products, revoking all existing licences and permits.

The directive was made public on Wednesday by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, during the 18th meeting of the National Council on Environment held in Katsina State.

Lawal explained that the move, contained in the Presidential Executive Order on the Prohibition of Exportation of Wood and Allied Products, 2025, aims to tackle illegal logging and deforestation across Nigeria.

“Nigeria’s forests are vital for environmental sustainability, providing clean air and water, supporting livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, and helping mitigate climate change,” the minister said. He added that continued wood exports threaten these benefits and the long-term health of the environment.

The policy mandates security agencies and relevant ministries to enforce a strict nationwide crackdown on illegal logging activities.