The Federal Government said that continued exportation of wood poses serious threats to Nigeria’s environment and undermines the long-term benefits forests provide. Authorities say unchecked logging is worsening environmental degradation and endangering sustainability as the ban aims to protect Nigeria’s forests and support climate action for future generations.
The ban, published in the Extraordinary Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 180 of 16 October 2025, is backed by Sections 17(2) and 20 of the 1999 Constitution. These sections empower the government to protect the environment, forests and wildlife, and to prevent the exploitation of natural resources for private interests.
Under the new policy, security agencies and relevant ministries have been directed to enforce a strict nationwide clampdown on illegal logging and wood export activities.
Speaking at a council meeting, Katsina State Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe stressed the importance of cooperation in tackling environmental challenges. He noted that environmental sustainability, afforestation and the fight against desertification are key priorities.
