The global economy operates well-established systems and principles that nations strategically adopt to enhance growth and development. When a country fails to explore proven models that contribute to global prosperity, such neglect often stems from ignorance, and such ignorance can impede national progress.
Recent debates in Nigeria surrounding the Halal Industry have generated unnecessary controversy. This piece is not a rejoinder to those debates, but rather an academic reflection aimed at clarifying the economic importance of faith-based systems such as Halal (Islamic) and Kosher (Jewish) frameworks.
Nigerians are globally recognized for their intellectual capacity and educational achievements. However, it is unfortunate that this knowledge and expertise rarely translate into informed, constructive dialogue on domestic issues, especially those with the potential to unify and economically benefit the nation. For instance, some Nigerians oppose Arabic inscriptions on the naira yet freely purchase imported products that bear faith-based logos such as Halal or Kosher symbols. This inconsistency reflects a lack of critical inquiry and public education.
A truly educated society should embrace research and open-mindedness, exploring concepts before forming opinions. Around the world, faith-based economic systems like Halal and Kosher are not sources of division but vehicles of economic growth. Countries such as China, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States have integrated these systems into their economies without public controversy. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, discussions of such systems often devolve into religious or political debates, distracting from their tangible economic potential. 
Both faith-based and secular institutions share a responsibility to educate the public objectively. This requires a systematic approach like the innovation adoption model in agricultural extension, which recognizes innovators, early adopters, late adopters, and laggards. Nigeria’s Muslim community and the federal government must reconsider their current strategies for introducing the Halal Industry. The key question should be: How have non-Muslim nations successfully embraced and managed Halal and Kosher industries to serve their citizens while boosting national GDP?
The evidence is clear. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United States are global leaders in the Halal and Kosher sectors. Despite being non-Muslim-majority nations, they have harnessed these industries to support exports and strengthen GDP contributions. In the Halal meat sector, for instance, these countries dominate global trade. Many multinational companies, including those whose products enter Nigerian markets, are already Halal-certified.
Nigeria, blessed with vast agricultural resources, has enormous potential to benefit from developing its own Halal industry. If properly harnessed, this sector could diversify Nigeria’s economy, create jobs, and generate significant foreign exchange earnings. However, to achieve this, public reorientation is essential—particularly among those who view faith-based initiatives through a purely religious lens rather than as opportunities for economic empowerment.
It is worth recalling the early resistance that accompanied the introduction of Islamic finance in Nigeria. Today, Islamic-compliant financial instruments are widely accepted and have become valuable tools in national development—benefiting citizens across all faiths. A similar inclusive and educational approach is needed for the Halal Industry.
Secular countries such as the United States, France, and the United Kingdom have established robust regulatory frameworks for Halal and Kosher certification. These systems are treated as legitimate components of consumer protection, trade facilitation, and industrial development. Meanwhile, Nigeria remains caught in debates over “Islamization” a narrative that distracts from the real economic opportunities these systems offer.
A Universal Economic System, not a Religious Monopoly
The essence of the Halal economy lies in ethical production, safety, cleanliness, transparency, and fairness values that benefit everyone, regardless of religion. In practice, Halal-certified products meet global standards of hygiene, environmental sustainability, and humane animal welfare.
* Access to healthier, ethically produced food and through business participation in certification, logistics, and export operations.
* The industry allows and accommodates all faiths to participate in Halal job opportunities.
The country would gain competitive advantages in international trade, as many importing countries, especially in Asia and the Middle East require Halal certification.
All faiths enjoy greater assurance of food safety, integrity, and product quality.
The Halal industry has existed in countries like Australia and New Zealand since the 1970s, yet these nations have not become “Islamized.” This fact alone should reassure skeptics. What Nigeria needs is not more division but a commitment to inclusiveness and understanding. Faith-based economic models, when properly structured, can strengthen national unity and contribute meaningfully to economic diversification.
In conclusion, the Halal industry is no longer a religious concept it is a global brand and a viable economic system that adds measurable value to national economies. Nigeria’s policymakers, business leaders, and faith communities must work collaboratively to promote awareness, establish inclusive frameworks, and position the country to benefit from this global market. Harnessing the Halal and Kosher economic systems can become a catalyst for national development, social harmony, and economic resilience.
* By Monsuru Adekunle Salisu, PhD
Executive Consultant, Halal and Agrofood Compliance Certification Services (HACCS), Texas, United States
Author of Contemporary Discourse of Halal and Islamic Entrepreneurship: Trends and Future Opportunities & Green and Blue Economy Frameworks for Halal Industry Sustainability
Email: salisuadekunle@gmail.com
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