Oluwafunbi Bello 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s furniture manufacturers welcome the Federal Government’s ban on raw wood exports, describing the policy as a turning point for domestic manufacturing and environmental protection.
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Wood and Furniture Sector say the directive will stabilise raw material supply, boost local value addition and curb deforestation.
MAN Chairperson, Ngozi Oyewole on Friday said the ban demonstrates strong political will. “This shows an understanding that economic growth comes from adding value locally, not exporting raw resources,” she states.
The ban, announced by Environment Minister Balarabe Lawal at the National Council on Environment meeting in Katsina, revokes all existing export permits for unprocessed timber.
Oyewole says the policy will support job creation, strengthen SMEs and improve the competitiveness of Nigerian-made furniture, while discouraging illegal logging.
Manufacturers pledge collaboration with government agencies to ensure compliance and sustainable forest management.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Koko Maxwella 