In a significant move to modernize agricultural export regulations, the House of Representatives in Nigeria has introduced the Export (Prohibition) Act (Repeal) Bill, 2025 (HB.2460). Sponsored by Hon. Francis E. Waive and Hon. Babajimi Benson, the bill seeks to repeal the existing Export (Prohibition) Act of 1989, which has been criticized for restricting the export of key food items.
The original 1989 Act was implemented to ensure the local consumption of staple foods, prohibiting the export of beans, cassava tubers, maize, rice, yam tubers, and their derivatives. However, critics contend that this outdated legislation is stifling Nigeria’s economic growth and export potential, particularly in the agricultural sector. They argue that the restrictions are deterring foreign investment and inhibiting the country’s ability to leverage its status as a significant producer of these crops.
Currently, the bill has undergone its First Reading in the House, marking the initial step in the legislative process where its title was formally introduced. It has not yet reached the Second Reading, as a motion to advance it was not approved during a recent session. The initiative to repeal the Export (Prohibition) Act is not new; a similar effort was made in 2019 with the introduction of SB 205.
Hon. Francis E. Waive, one of the sponsors, serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, while Hon. Babajimi Benson represents the Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State and currently chairs the House Committee on Defense.
The backdrop of this proposed legislation includes a food crisis that prompted directives in 2024 from the President for “total compliance” with the existing Export (Prohibition) Act, aimed at curbing food smuggling and ensuring domestic food security. This situation underscores the ongoing debate between enhancing export-driven economic growth and addressing pressing domestic food needs. The discussion around the repeal of the Act is expected to bring forth varying perspectives on how to effectively balance these critical priorities.
