Africa’s Largest Shea Butter Plant Opens in Niger State, Aims to Transform Global Supply

Africa’s Largest Shea Butter Plant Opens in Niger State, Aims to Transform Global Supply

In a landmark development for Nigeria’s agricultural sector, Salid Agriculture Nigeria Limited has launched Africa’s largest shea butter processing facility in Kudu, Mokwa Local Council of Niger State. Boasting an annual production capacity of 30,000 metric tons, the plant is set to revolutionize shea butter production and position Niger State as a global hub for the industry.Inaugurated on August 10, 2025, by Governor Muhammad Umar Bago, the facility marks a significant step toward value addition and economic prosperity in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Salid Agriculture’s CEO, Ali Saidu, outlined ambitious plans to scale the plant’s processing capacity to 400 metric tons per day and establish a state-of-the-art shea butter refinery. “Our vision is to meet rising global demand and position ourselves as a leading supplier of high-quality shea products while securing sustainable raw material sources and empowering local communities,” Saidu said. He emphasized the company’s pioneering role in creating the world’s first dedicated Shea Portland, focused on preserving biodiversity and promoting long-term land stewardship.The facility has already forged partnerships with GIZ and DFID through the PROPCOM MAIKAIFI project to organize local shea nut pickers, predominantly women, into structured cooperatives, fostering grassroots employment. Governor Bago announced a ₦2 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Niger Foods and Salid Agriculture to provide direct jobs for women and youth in shea nut harvesting and supply. “This plant is the beginning of a new era for Niger State, where we add value to our natural resources, create jobs, and drive economic prosperity,” Bago said, urging the host community to protect the investment. He also revealed that the state has earmarked 10,000 hectares for shea tree cultivation to ensure a steady raw material supply.Executive Director Daniel Alabi described the facility as “a symbol of perseverance and commitment” to elevating production standards for global markets. He highlighted Salid’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, including a 90km rural electrification project benefiting 70 communities, support for girl-child education, and environmental protection measures.Abba Bello, CEO of NEXIM Bank, which financed the project, noted that Nigeria accounts for 60% of global shea nut production but has lacked large-scale processing until now. He announced plans for four additional processing plants nationwide, two of which will be in Niger State, to further develop the shea value chain.The Niger State Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Alhaji Aminu Takuma, hailed the project as a testament to successful public-private partnerships, aligning with the state’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone initiative. Meanwhile, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, commended Governor Bago’s agricultural vision but cautioned against indiscriminate tree felling, urging communities to safeguard the investment for sustainable growth.As the facility begins operations, it promises to transform Niger State’s economy, empower local communities, and elevate Nigeria’s standing in the global shea butter market.  

Source: Africa’s Largest Shea Butter Plant Opens in Niger State, Aims to Transform Global Supply

 - NigerianEye

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