Minister for Environment, Lawal, accused of sabotage over Permit

DDM NEWS

Minister Lawal

Abuja, Nigeria — A wave of criticism has hit the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abass Lawal, following accusations of economic sabotage and policy obstruction within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform-driven administration.

The allegations stem from his reported refusal to issue Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) permits to qualified Nigerian exporters, thereby stalling a potentially lucrative stream of foreign exchange.

Stakeholders in the wildlife export and wood industry have raised concerns over what they describe as the Minister’s deliberate refusal to approve and release CITES permits—even after all necessary procedures and payments have been fulfilled.

These permits are required for the export of reptiles and other regulated species, many of which are listed under CITES Appendix III and are not classified as endangered.

Despite Nigeria being a signatory to the global CITES agreement since 1974, exporters lament that the Minister’s actions have not only denied the country substantial revenue but have also pushed investors to neighboring countries such as Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana, and Cameroon—where the process is reportedly more business-friendly and in line with international standards.

“This is a clear violation of President Tinubu’s Executive Order 001 on the Ease of Doing Business,” said one exporter who requested anonymity.

“When a Minister who is supposed to facilitate growth begins to obstruct policy implementation, it becomes a matter of national concern.”

Industry insiders warn that Lawal’s actions contradict the broader economic objectives of the Tinubu administration, which aims to grow Nigeria’s GDP, enhance food security, and create jobs through improved trade facilitation.

Critics argue that the Environment Minister’s conduct is not only “ultra vires” but also detrimental to the credibility of the President’s cabinet.

Some claim that the Minister, despite being fully aware of the legal backing and economic potential of the trade, has openly refused to act, allegedly declaring that “nothing will happen.”

Calls are growing louder for President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that all approved permits are released without further delay.

“Any Minister or appointee who hinders legitimate business activities that contribute to national development should be held accountable,” one stakeholder said.

Documents reportedly showing approved and paid-for CITES permits still awaiting final authorization have been circulated as part of a growing body of evidence against the Minister.

As pressure mounts, Nigerians await a response from the Presidency and clarification from the Ministry of Environment regarding the allegations and the future of CITES permit issuance in the country.

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