Temitope Amujo, CEO of AmuGold Global Network in Kwara, has urged both federal and state governments to support the shea butter industry, which is now threatened by the emergence of shea nuts as a substitute for cocoa in chocolate production.
Amujo highlights that the $2.5 billion industry is struggling, already affected by logging for charcoal export and the bulk export of raw shea seeds, which diminishes economic value.
“While shea butter export is valued over $2.5 billion annually for Nigeria, the nuts used to produce it do not hold similar worth. Shea butter could potentially replace cocoa butter and is being adopted in confectionery manufacturing in the UK and US,” he stated during the company’s 10th anniversary celebration in Ilorin.
The event also featured the launch of new products, a women empowerment initiative, and a scholarship award for winners of the Cute Baby Competition for babies using shea butter products.
After founding AmuGold Global, known for its signature product Jimpo-Ori, with support from the Tony Elumelu Foundation ten years ago, Amujo noted additional challenges like the destruction of demonstration farms by Fulani herdsmen.
He explained that shea trees take 30 years to mature, but currently face threats from charcoal production.
In response, AmuGold initiated the ‘Save the Shea’ project in 2018, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency, to discourage tree cutting and promote replanting initiatives. They established a plantation and are working with research institutes to develop a variety that fruits in seven years. However, over 50% of this plantation has already been lost to herdsman damage, and there is now a significant challenge in sourcing shea nuts due to increased export activity. While acknowledging the benefits of export for the economy, Amujo cautioned that exporting raw materials could also lead to job losses. He emphasized that just three shea trees can sustain a rural woman for a year.
Additionally, AmuGold celebrated the conclusion of its ‘Cute Baby Competition,’ awarding scholarships to winners including Nathan Udeh and Wonder Mofiyinoluwa.
The company also recognized outstanding staff with N4 million in awards, aiming to inspire excellence among employees. Notably, Mr. Adedoyin Olajide received N2 million as the overall best staff.
In his remarks, he expressed gratitude for the recognition, viewing it as an encouragement to continue contributing to AmuGold Global Network.
