President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched Nigeria’s ‘National Halal Economy Strategy’ to position the country to tap into the $7.7 trillion global halal market and accelerate economic diversification.
The strategy, unveiled on his behalf by Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, is projected to add about $1.5 billion to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2027.
Shettima said the policy sets clear, measurable goals, including expanding halal-compliant food exports, developing pharmaceutical and cosmetic value-chains, promoting halal-friendly tourism, and mobilising ethical finance, with a target of unlocking over $12 billion in economic value by 2030. He stressed that the halal economy is no longer defined by religion but by global standards of quality, safety, traceability, and ethical production.
The Vice-President noted that countries such as the UK, France, Germany, the US, Canada, and Australia are already major players in halal production and exports, underscoring its global commercial appeal. He added that Nigeria’s recent agreement with Türkiye on halal quality infrastructure would strengthen certification and international acceptance of Nigerian products.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment and Chairperson of the National Halal Strategy Committee, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the strategy as a product of strong public-private collaboration, while France signalled support for Nigeria’s export drive in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
