‘How ban on cement, frozen poultry import will affect economy’

The Federal Government’s decision to expand its import prohibition list to include a wider range of goods—such as cement, frozen poultry, food items, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products—has drawn mixed reactions from economic experts, who warn that the policy could reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape in both positive and challenging ways. The revised list, released by the […]

The Federal Government’s decision to expand its import prohibition list to include a wider range of goods—such as cement, frozen poultry, food items, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products—has drawn mixed reactions from economic experts, who warn that the policy could reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape in both positive and challenging ways.
The revised list, released by the Federal Ministry of Finance and effective April 1, 2026, covers seventeen major categories of items now barred from entering the country through any port. The move underscores a strong policy direction toward protecting domestic industries, reducing import dependence, and conserving scarce foreign exchange.
However, analysts say the implications of banning key imports like cement and frozen poultry could reverberate across multiple sectors, affecting prices, employment, investment decisions, and overall economic stability.
One of the most critical aspects of the policy is the continued ban on imported cement. While the government’s intention is to support local manufacturers, experts warn that the restriction could have unintended consequences for the construction sector.
Speaking on the development, a Professor of Accounting at Nile University of Nigeria, Prof. Ofili Ugwudioha, noted that limiting cement imports could shrink commercial activities.
“When such decisions are taken, there must be a proper feasibility study to assess their implications on the economy. The ban on cement, for instance, will likely reduce commercial activities. When commerce shrinks, it can lead to unemployment, and rising unemployment may trigger increased criminality,” he said.
He further warned that the policy could worsen existing structural issues in the cement industry, where a few dominant players already control the market.
“Already, there are concerns about monopoly in the sector. Cement prices in Nigeria are higher than in some neighbouring West African countries. Restricting imports further could reduce competition and push prices even higher,” he added.