- President Tinubu unveils Nigeria’s National Halal Economy Strategy in Abuja
- The policy targets Nigeria’s entry into the $7.7 trillion global halal market.
- The Federal Government projects a $1.5 billion GDP boost by 2027
The Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has launched Nigeria’s National Halal Economy Strategy, a major policy drive aimed at positioning the country to benefit from the booming $7.7 trillion global halal industry and accelerate economic diversification.
The initiative was unveiled on Thursday, February 5, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with Vice President Kashim Shettima representing the President, according to a statement from the Presidency.
Government projections indicate that the strategy could contribute about $1.5 billion to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2027, largely through export expansion, job creation, and stronger participation in international halal value chains.
Speaking at the event, Shettima said the launch demonstrates Nigeria’s preparedness to compete in the fast-growing halal economy, which already attracts significant investment from major economies around the world.
He explained that the strategy provides a clear roadmap for Nigeria’s entry into multiple halal-related sectors, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, tourism, and finance.
According to him, the policy reflects the government’s plan to align domestic production with global halal standards while turning emerging opportunities into long-term economic gains.
“It is with this sense of responsibility that I formally unveil the Nigeria National Halal Economy Strategy. This document is a declaration of our promise to meet global standards with Nigerian capacity and to convert opportunity into lasting economic value,” he said.
Shettima stressed that strong implementation would be critical to the strategy’s success, particularly in delivering employment opportunities and boosting exports.
“What follows must be action that is disciplined, inclusive, and measurable, so that this Strategy delivers jobs, exports, and shared prosperity across our nation,” the Vice President stated.
He also disclosed that implementation of the plan will be overseen by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.
Earlier this year, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a globally competitive halal ecosystem during an official visit to the Republic of Türkiye in January.
One of the major outcomes of that trip was the signing of an Agreement in the Field of Halal Quality Infrastructure between both countries. The pact focuses on improving standards, accreditation, certification, and quality assurance systems, steps considered essential for boosting international acceptance of Nigerian halal products and services.
The Federal Government had first announced plans for the halal strategy in 2024, already projecting a potential $1.5 billion boost to GDP by 2027.
At the time, Special Assistant to the President on Export Expansion (Office of the Vice President), Aliyu Sheriff, highlighted the economic potential of the initiative.
“The Halal economy represents a tremendous opportunity for Nigeria to diversify our economy, generate foreign exchange, and achieve sustainable growth.
“By increasing our Halal exports and focusing on strategic import substitution, we project an addition of nearly $1.5 billion to our GDP by 2027,” he stated.
The halal economy refers to a global system of goods, services, and investments that comply with Islamic law (Shariah). While often associated with food, it also covers pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, modest fashion, tourism, logistics, and Islamic finance, with an emphasis on ethical, hygienic, and sustainable practices.
Valued at more than $7 trillion, the sector has become a powerful engine of global trade, with major hubs in countries such as Malaysia, Brazil, and Australia.