Bilateral engagement between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria in the halal food sector has recently gained prominence for its potential economic benefits. Despite this growth, limited research has examined how medicinal plants and fruits can be integrated into the halal food industry across both countries. An even greater gap exists regarding the role of Islamic banking and finance experts in facilitating this integration.
Objective
This study explores the potential involvement of Islamic banking and finance experts in supporting the integration of Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits into Saudi Arabia's halal food sector.
Methods
The study adopts a library-based research design using analytical content analysis. It reviews secondary data and existing literature from Saudi Arabia and Nigeria to identify prospects, challenges, and opportunities for harmonizing medicinal plant and fruit products within the halal ecosystem.
Results
Findings indicate that Nigeria's abundant medicinal plants and fruits present significant value for Saudi Arabia's halal sector. Successful integration requires Nigerian farmers to comply with Saudi halal standards, particularly regarding supply chain management and certification. Islamic banking and finance professionals, together with halal industry stakeholders, contribute to ensuring that plant- and fruit-based products meet Islamic dietary regulations—such as avoiding alcohol in extraction and preventing contamination with nonhalal substances. Existing studies largely focus on anti-infective and cardiovascular applications, reflecting prevalent health needs and traditional practices that rely on halal, Sharī‘ah-compliant natural resources.
Implications
Experts in Islamic banking and finance should actively engage producers, suppliers, distributors, and consumers to uphold halal standards across the supply chain in both countries, thereby strengthening cross-border collaboration and value creation in the halal food industry.
farmershalal food industryIslamic banking and financemedicinal plants and fruitspartnershipShari'ah-compliancePrince Sultan University10.13039/501100012639The author(s) declared that financial support was received for this work and/or its publication. Author of this Article would like to thank the Governance and Policy Design Research Lab (GPDRL) of Prince Sultan University (PSU) for their financial and academic support to conduct this research and publish it in a reputable Journal.section-at-acceptanceSocial Movements, Institutions and GovernanceIntroduction
The global halal industry has expanded far beyond food, now encompassing pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, finance, and lifestyle sectors. This growth is driven by rising demand from both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers seeking ethically produced and high-quality products. Yet, the industry continues to face challenges relating to varying regulatory standards, certification procedures, limited consumer awareness, and shortages of experts in Islamic economics and halal governance (Hassan et al., 2021a). These issues are further compounded by inconsistencies in halal regulations across countries, influenced by different Islamic legal schools, particularly in areas such as slaughtering methods, supply chain integrity, and product labeling (Hassan et al., 2022).
Against this backdrop, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria have recently strengthened their bilateral relations through a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at tapping into the global halal economy, valued at an estimated $7.7 trillion (Mahmoud et al., 2025). The partnership— formalized in 2025 during the Makkah Halal Forum—focuses on developing halal food production, pharmaceuticals, livestock, and Islamic finance through collaboration with Saudi Arabia's Halal Products Development Company (HPDC). This cooperation is viewed as a major step toward positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global halal marketplace (Alhassan et al., 2017; Iyiola and Adegoke Wahab, 2024).
However, despite the growing collaboration, a significant knowledge gap persists regarding the integration of Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits into the Saudi halal food industry, particularly from the perspective of Islamic banking and finance. Existing studies have largely concentrated on halal food manufacturing, livestock, and regulatory challenges, with very limited attention to the potential of medicinal plants and fruits as halal-compliant value chains (Alrobaish et al., 2021). Furthermore, the literature has not adequately explored how Islamic finance experts—who play essential roles in structuring Shariah-compliant investments, certification financing, and risk governance—can support this emerging sector. The lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework and the absence of a clear theoretical foundation for involving Islamic finance professionals further limits the operationalization of this potential (Ogunbado et al., 2017).
The novelty of this study lies in its pioneering focus on (i) the underexplored economic and halal-compliant potential of Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits, and (ii) the strategic involvement of Islamic banking and finance experts in integrating these products into the Saudi halal food industry. The original contribution rests on establishing a conceptual link between halal value chain expansion and Shariah-compliant financial mechanisms as a pathway to strengthening Saudi–Nigeria collaboration and advancing sustainable development.
Motivated by the global rise in ethical consumption and the increasing demand for halal-certified natural products among an estimated 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, this study proposes that Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits—when supported by Islamic finance expertise—can expand halal product diversity, enhance regulatory compliance, and foster mutually beneficial economic ties (Borokini and Omotayo, 2012; Nusran, 2024). The remainder of this paper presents the literature review, methodology, results and discussion, implications, conclusion, and recommendations.
Literature review
Different aspects of the literature review are discussed in this section, which include: an overview of the Halal Food Industry and Islamic Banking and Finance; multi-dimensional challenges faced by the Halal Food Industry-regulatory, operational, and market challenges;
Islamic Banking and Finance and the Halal Food Industry in Saudi Arabia; Islamic Banking and Finance and the Halal Food Industry in Nigeria; and an overview of Medicinal Plants and Fruits in Nigeria. Each of these is explained in the ensuing subheadings.
An overview of halal food industry and Islamic banking and finance
The global halal market is valued at approximately US$2.3 trillion and continues to expand with a diverse consumer base that includes both Muslims and non-Muslims (Hassan et al., 2021a). The halal agri-food sector shows strong growth potential due to rising demand for high-quality and safe products, supported by international collaborations (Azam and Abdullah, 2020). In Saudi Arabia alone, food market revenue is projected to reach US$57.41 billion in 2025 (Al-Teinaz et al., 2020), with an expected annual growth rate of 3.96% between 2025 and 2030. The bread and cereal segment Islamic banking institutions in Saudi Arabia face several regulatory, operational, and market-related challenges in financing the halal food industry (Alsunaidi and Albakjaji, 2023). While required to operate strictly within Shariah principles, these institutions must also compete with conventional financial systems. Three major categories of challenges emerge from the literature.
Saudi Arabia's Islamic banking regulations remain insufficiently flexible to address the specific financing needs of halal food enterprises. The existing regulatory framework often reflects conventional banking models, limiting the development of tailored Shariah-compliant financial products (Rahmatika et al., 2024). Continuous regulatory reform and alignment with Islamic finance principles are therefore necessary to enhance competitiveness and responsiveness. Islamic banks also struggle with liquidity management difficulties and the complexity of Shariah-compliant contracts. In practice, some profit-and loss sharing (PLS) calculations still resemble interest-based models, creating friction in contract implementation and reducing the appeal of Islamic financing options (Hassan et al., 2022; Gultom, 2022; Kusnanto and Qalbia, 2024).
Adoption of Islamic financing among halal food entrepreneurs remains low, partly due to the availability of easier non-Shariah financing alternatives. This highlights the need for stronger education and awareness about the benefits of Shariah-compliant financing (Zaib et al., 2021). Scale diseconomies and contractual impediments further constrain Islamic banks' ability to provide competitive financing solutions (Hassan et al., 2022). Nevertheless, these challenges point to substantial opportunities for innovation and capacity building within Islamic finance (Raimi et al., 2025). Addressing such regulatory and operational constraints is especially crucial when considering the integration of Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits into the Saudi halal food sector.
Islamic banking and finance and the halal food industry in Saudi Arabia
Islamic banking institutions play a significant role in supporting and financing the halal food industry in Saudi Arabia. The country's strategic position and economic strength make it an important hub in the global halal supply chain (Tijjani and Onapajo, 2023). However, several impediments continue to hinder optimal performance. These include reliance on interestresembling PLS mechanisms, dominance of conventional contracting structures, and regulatory frameworks that do not fully support Islamic banking principles (Williams et al., 2024). Weaknesses in corporate governance and Shariah law enforcement also complicate financing for halal initiatives (Alshaleel, 2019; Ben Mimoun, 2019). Studies further emphasize the importance of expanding halal product categories, including halal beverages (Zaib et al., 2021).
To strengthen the sector, literature highlights strategies such as offering more flexible financing structures, diversifying product portfolios, improving liquidity management, and achieving economies of scale (Alrobaish et al., 2021; Aljumai, 2019). Lower financing costs and enhanced support for SMEs can also increase Islamic banks' capacity to foster growth in the halal food sector (Bashir et al., 2019; Muhammad and bin Ngah, 2020; Situ, 2022). Still, issues such as complex contracts, speculative risks, and similarities to conventional interest mechanisms remain barriers. Shariah supervisory boards therefore play a critical role in improving compliance, while regulatory standardization and public awareness are essential for industry advancement (Rahmatika et al., 2024). As demand for halal products grows, Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a global leader in the halal market (Azam and Abdullah, 2020).
Islamic banking and finance and the halal food industry in Nigeria
Islamic banking and finance in Nigeria are emerging sectors offering Shariah-compliant financial services to meet the needs of the Muslim population while contributing to national economic development. Despite their potential, these institutions face regulatory inconsistencies and socio-cultural resistance (Ogunbado et al., 2017). Islamic banks play an important role in supporting SMEs through accessible financing, which has contributed to reduced financial exclusion—from 46.3% in 2010 to 35.9% in 2020 (Abdullahi et al., 2024; Williams et al., 2024). However, ambiguous Central Bank regulations and societal misconceptions have impeded broader acceptance (Razimi and Shahril, 2016; Ogunbado et al., 2017). Overcoming these issues requires strengthened regulatory frameworks and enhanced trust-building mechanisms grounded in ethical finance (Hassan et al., 2021b). Multi-stakeholder collaboration is therefore crucial for creating a functional Islamic financial system.
Nigeria's halal food industry is rapidly expanding due to rising consumer awareness and increasing demand for halal products. However, multiple certifying bodies operating without coordination undermine consumer trust and complicate market regulation. Literature therefore advocates for a unified halal certification system to strengthen product integrity, streamline regulatory oversight, and support industry growth. Many SMEs still overlook halal certification, resulting in poor product quality and limited market patronage (Abbas et al., 2025). Effective development strategies include improving technical efficiency, strengthening marketing, and enhancing collaboration with regulators. As the industry evolves, integrating halal-certified Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits presents additional opportunities for innovation and market diversification. They remain the largest, with a market volume of US$10.46 billion in 2025. Harmonizing food safety and halal standards is therefore crucial for improving product quality, strengthening consumer trust, and enhancing market competitiveness (Alrobaish et al., 2021).
The global halal food sector, driven by a growing Muslim population and increased purchasing power, now attracts considerable interest from non-Muslims due to health, ethical, and safety considerations (Adeyemo et al., 2025; Ramli et al., 2023; Djemilou, 2025). Technological innovations—including blockchain systems for halal verification—are improving transparency and reducing fraud (Attwood et al., 2025; Prayuda et al., 2023). At the same time, advances in biotechnology and nanotechnology are creating new opportunities for developing halalan tayyiban products (Hashim et al., 2024). The application of Maqasid al-Shariah further supports the production of halal goods that are beneficial to both individuals and society (Zakaria and Shoid, 2023).
Despite these prospects, the industry faces persistent challenges. These include low awareness of halal principles, inconsistent global certification standards, uncertainties regarding ingredients, limited availability of halal-certified raw materials, and misleading product labeling (Alrobaish et al., 2021; Hashim and Mohd Nor, 2022). Differences in national halal regulations also complicate international trade and create compliance difficulties across supply chains (Bux et al., 2022; Oluwole et al., 2021).
Recent partnerships—such as the Saudi Arabia–Nigeria collaboration to strengthen halal food production—highlight the sector's economic potential (Ajoseh et al., 2024). Scholars emphasize the need for modern halal jurisprudence to address emerging technologies, alongside improved certification systems, clearer standards, and expanded access to Shariah-compliant financing. Islamic banking institutions are increasingly recognized as essential in financing halal enterprises, enhancing regulatory coherence, raising stakeholder awareness, and implementing appropriate risk management frameworks (Azam, 2016; Ben Mimoun, 2019; Hassan et al., 2021b). However, as the halal market expands geographically, ensuring consistent Shariah compliance becomes more complex and may hinder financing and market growth (Mafimisebi et al., 2013). Overall, while the halal food industry offers substantial growth opportunities—especially for SMEs—addressing certification inconsistencies, strengthening supply chain integrity, and enhancing public awareness remain critical for sustainable development of the global halal ecosystem.
Multi-dimensional challenges facing the halal food industry
Islamic banking institutions in Saudi Arabia face several regulatory, operational, and marketrelated challenges in financing the halal food industry. Operating strictly under Shariah principles while competing with conventional financial systems further complicates their performance. The literature highlights three major categories of challenges. First, Islamic banking regulations often lack the flexibility required to support the specific needs of halal food enterprises. The evolving regulatory framework still mirrors conventional banking models, limiting the development of tailored Islamic financial products (Rahmatika et al., 2024). Continuous realignment of regulations is therefore essential to strengthen Islamic banking and enhance competitiveness. Second, Islamic banks struggle to offer a comprehensive product portfolio due to liquidity management constraints and the complexity of Shariah-compliant contracts. In many cases, profit-and-loss sharing (PLS) calculations still resemble interest-based systems, creating friction in contract implementation and reducing the attractiveness of Islamic financing options (Hassan et al., 2022; Gultom, 2022; Kusnanto and Qalbia, 2024). Third, adoption of Islamic financing among halal food entrepreneurs remains low, partly because conventional financing alternatives appear more accessible. This underscores the need for improved awareness of the benefits and mechanisms of Shariah-compliant financing (Zaib et al., 2021). Additionally, scale diseconomies and contractual frictions hinder Islamic banks from offering competitive financing solutions (Hassan et al., 2022). Nevertheless, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and expansion within the Islamic financial sector. Increased customer education and improved regulatory reforms can enhance adoption and support the rapidly growing halal industry (Raimi et al., 2025). These issues must be considered in efforts to integrate Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits into the halal food sector in Saudi Arabia.
Islamic banking, finance, and the halal food industry in Saudi Arabia
Islamic banking plays a significant role in financing and promoting the halal food industry in Saudi Arabia. The country's strategic location and economic strength position it as a major hub in the global halal supply chain (Tijjani and Onapajo, 2023). However, several obstacles persist. These include reliance on PLS methods resembling interest systems, dominance of conventional contracting forms, and regulatory frameworks that do not fully support Islamic finance (Williams et al., 2024). Weak corporate governance and limited enforcement of Shariah law further complicate financing for halal initiatives (Alshaleel, 2019; Ben Mimoun, 2019). Studies also emphasize the need to expand halal categories—such as halal beverages—to meet growing consumer demand (Zaib et al., 2021).
The literature identifies several strategies to strengthen Islamic banking performance: offering flexible financing options, diversifying product portfolios, improving liquidity management, and achieving economies of scale (Alrobaish et al., 2021). Lower financing costs and enhanced SME support are also vital for sectoral growth (Bashir et al., 2019). Nonetheless, the halal food industry still faces challenges related to contract complexity, speculative risks, and resemblance to conventional interest mechanisms. In this context, Shariah supervisory boards, regulatory clarity, and consumer awareness play critical roles in improving compliance and productivity (Rahmatika et al., 2024). With increasing global demand and strengthening verification mechanisms, Saudi Arabia remains a key player in the expanding halal market (Azam and Abdullah, 2020).
Islamic banking, finance, and the halal food industry in Nigeria
Islamic banking and finance in Nigeria provide Shariah-compliant services tailored to the needs of the Muslim population while contributing to national economic development. Despite its potential, the sector faces challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies and socio-cultural resistance (Ogunbado et al., 2017). Islamic banks support SME expansion through accessible financing, reducing financial exclusion from 46.3% in 2010 to 35.9% in 2020 (Abdullahi et al., 2024; Williams et al., 2024). However, ambiguous policies by the Central Bank of Nigeria and resistance from religious and ethnic groups continue to hinder broader acceptance (Razimi and Shahril, 2016; Ogunbado et al., 2017). The success of Islamic finance in Nigeria therefore depends on robust regulatory frameworks, ethical financing principles, and multi-stakeholder collaboration (Hassan et al., 2021b).
Nigeria's halal food industry is rapidly expanding due to rising demand and increased emphasis on halal certification. However, the presence of multiple certifying bodies without unified oversight weakens consumer trust and complicates market regulation. The literature recommends establishing a single, standardized halal certification system to ensure product integrity. Many SMEs still neglect halal certification, resulting in reduced product quality and limited patronage. Enhancing technical efficiency, improving marketing strategies, and strengthening cooperation with regulators are crucial for sectoral advancement. As the industry evolves, integrating halal-certified medicinal plants and fruits offers new opportunities for diversification and value addition.
Overview of medicinal plants and fruits in Nigeria
Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups possess rich traditions in herbal medicine, with medicinal plants and fruits widely used for treating ailments, promoting wellness, and serving as dietary supplements (Oladele et al., 2020). These materials—administered through decoctions, infusions, or raw consumption—contain bioactive phytochemicals responsible for their therapeutic effects. Common examples include Neem (Azadirachta indica), Moringa (Moringa oleifera), Scent Leaf (Ocimum gratissimum), Bitter Leaf (Vernonia amygdalina), Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis), and African Basil (Ocimum basilicum).
Neem possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties due to compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbin, and terpenoids (Hidayat et al., 2022; Abubakar S. et al., 2017). Its antibacterial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus is linked to disruption of cell membranes and inhibition of biofilm formation (Kumar et al., 2024; Yadav et al., 2023). Its anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to compounds such as nimbidin and nimbolide (Haji et al., 2023; Seethapathy et al., 2021).
Moringa oleifera is rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer benefits. It is traditionally used for respiratory, digestive, and metabolic disorders. Bitter Leaf provides antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects; Aloe Vera aids wound healing and digestive health; and African Basil supports respiratory and digestive wellness through antimicrobial activity.
While these plants offer significant therapeutic potential, challenges such as limited scientific validation, variability in traditional practices, and issues of standardization remain. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern research is essential for safe and effective application—especially when considering their expansion into the halal food industry. Based on the foregoing explanations, Table 1 shows various medicinal plants as highlighted in this study.
Common medicinal plants in Nigeria.
Plant name
Local name
Traditional use
Health benefits
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Dogonyaro (Hausa), Ayan (Yoruba)
Malaria treatment, skin infections
Antibacterial, antifungal, antiinflammatory
Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
Zogale (Hausa), Ewe igbale (Yoruba)
General health tonic
Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, antidiabetic
Scent Leaf (Ocimum gratissimum)
Nchanwu (Igbo), Efirin (Yoruba)
Respiratory issues, digestion
Antimicrobial, antidiarrheal
Bitter Leaf (Vernonia amygdalina)
Onugbu (Igbo), Ewuro (Yoruba)
Malaria, diabetes, digestive issues
Blood sugar regulation, detoxification
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Ewe aloin
Skin burns, wounds, constipation
Skin healing, laxative, anti- inflammatory
African Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Effirin/Nchanwu
Coughs, fevers
Antioxidant, immune support
Source: Adapted from extant studies: Hidayat et al., 2022; Hamza and Salim, 2023; Ainur and Purwani, 2025.
Nigeria is also rich in diverse fruits valued not only for their nutritional content but also for their medicinal properties (Idahor, 2017). Examples include Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola), Pawpaw, Orange, Mango, Guava, Soursop, African Star Apple, Banana, Plantain, African Pear, and Baobab Fruit (Onyenweaku et al., 2018). These fruits contain bioactive compounds that contribute to a range of health benefits, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Bitter Kola, for instance, contains biflavonoids and polyphenolic compounds with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Traditionally, it is used for managing respiratory ailments, detoxification, and as an aphrodisiac. It also displays antidiabetic potential by inhibiting enzymes such as α-amylase. Other tropical fruits also provide significant health benefits. Pawpaw (papaya) is rich in vitamins and digestive enzymes, giving it notable digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Orange (Citrus sinensis), due to its high vitamin C content, strengthens the immune system and offers antioxidant protection. Mango (Mangifera indica), abundant in vitamins A and C, supports skin health and immunity. Guava (Psidium guajava) is valued for its high fiber content and potential role in managing diabetes.
Soursop (Graviola) contains compounds believed to possess anticancer potential, while African Star Apple (Chrysophyllum albidum) provides essential vitamins and minerals. Banana and Plantain are excellent sources of potassium and dietary fiber, promoting cardiovascular health. African Pear (Dacryodes edulis) offers healthy fats and antioxidants, and Baobab Fruit (Adansonia digitata) is exceptionally rich in vitamin C and supports immune function. While these fruits are widely recognized for their therapeutic benefits, further scientific validation of their traditional uses is necessary, as is caution regarding potential adverse effects in specific populations (Odeyemi et al., 2018). Table 2 presents selected medicinal fruits commonly used in Nigeria (Mukaila and Ajao, 2025).
Common medicinal fruits in Nigeria.
S/N
Medicinal fruits
Uses
Medicinal properties:
Common preparations
1.
Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola)
Traditionally Used to treat coughs, bacterial infections, and inflammation
Guava leaves are used to treat: • Diarrhea • Malaria • Sore throat
6.
Soursop (Graviola or Annona muricata)
Immune booster, cancer prevention (folk medicine), and pain relief.
Fruit, leaves, and bark.
Leaves are boiled to treat: • Fever • Insomnia • Hypertension
7.
African star apple (Agbalumo/Udara - Chrysophyllum albidum)
Rich in vitamin C, supports weight loss, and reduces blood sugar.
Fruit and seeds.
Traditionally used to treat: • Toothache (chewing the skin) • Sore throat • Constipation
8.
Banana and plantain
Aids digestion, high energy food, and used in traditional wound care.
Plantain peels and sap are used to treat: Burns Ulcers Skin infections
• Dry it and turn it to pounder and apply to burnt skill. • Blend Banana or plantain and mix with milk for treating ulcer. • Mix dired plantain peels and mix with seabutter for treating skin infections.
9.
African Pear (Dacryodes edulis)
Treats gastrointestinal disorders, boosts immunity, and lowers cholesterol
Fruit leaves and bark
• Eaten raw, infused in warm water
10.
Baobab Fruit (Adansonia digitata)
Rich in vitamin C and calcium,
treats diarrhea, and boosts energy.
Pulp and seeds. Used as a tonic for: • Fever • Anemia • Digestive issues
Methods and materials
This study adopts a qualitative research approach, focusing on the qualitative content analysis of literature from Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. It utilizes secondary data entirely, tapping from existing scholarly and policy documents. The methodological choice assists in gaining insight into how Islamic banking and finance experts can contribute to developing medicinal plants and fruits into the halal food industry within an interpretive comparative framework (Fadillah et al., 2022; Xiong and Chia, 2024). According to Umar et al. (2021), content analysis is a central technique adopted in qualitative research to study previous works systematically, giving what is needed toward defining, categorizing, and elaborating the concepts of relevance for the objectives of the present inquiry.
The aggregation and synthesis of pre-existing data strengthen the research in the course of engaging with established scholarly debates while developing a deeper understanding of the subject matter. A comprehensive review was assured through reliance on the WOS as a primary database, supplemented by peer-reviewed journals, published references, research articles, library collections, and institutional policy reports. These include materials from IsDB, BADEA, Saudi Arabia's HPDC, and the Makkah Halal Forum. Various guidelines and regulatory documents from the CBN were also reviewed.
There are various sources consulted which include: Peer-reviewed journal articles, Books, and book chapters, Institutional policy documents: IsDB, BADEA, HPDC, CBN, Proceedings from halal forums and conferences, Government reports, Halal certification guidelines and Agricultural and export policy documents relating to medicinal plants and fruits. These diversified sources allowed for a holistic understanding of the variables under investigation.
In addition, inclusion and exclusion criteria are taken into cognizance. The following criteria were used in selecting materials to ensure rigor: Publications from 2000–2024 should be used to ensure the data is current (Izberk-Bilgin and Nakata, 2016). Studies focusing on: Halal industry development, Islamic banking and finance, Medicinal plants and fruits, agricultural export standards in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia and Halal certification and compliance. Also, peer-reviewed and credible institutional documents and works written in English or translated into the English language. Moreover, exclusion criteria are being considered into account which are cognizance of the following: Publications outside the scope of halal food systems or medicinal plants/fruits, studies that lack methodological clarity, articles where the full text is not available, nonscholarly internet sources or unverifiable reports.
Furthermore, the analysis of the content was done systematically. All selected documents were read repeatedly to identify key concepts, definitions, and contextual knowledge pertaining to the halal industry and medicinal plants. A combined deductiveinductive coding strategy was applied. On one hand, deductive codes were derived from the research objectives, for example: halal industry benefits, export standards, expert roles. On the other hand, inductive codes emerged from recurring themes in the literature, such as regulatory barriers, potentials for phytochemicals, and financial inclusion. In addition, codes were categorized into conceptual categories, from which higher-order themes were developed. Comparison of codes across sources looked for convergences, divergences, and any patterns of interrelation. Specific search terms were used relating to halal food industry development, medicinal plants, Islamic finance, and export standards following systematic literature search protocols.
Content analysis yielded four major themes: Potential Benefits of Medicinal Plants and Fruits for the Halal Industry (PBMPFHI) (Azam and Abdullah, 2020; Akinsola et al., 2022; Hashim and Mohd Nor, 2022); Nigerian Farmers' Adaptation to Saudi Arabian Halal Industry Standards – NFASAHIS (Aworh, 2015; Abubakar U. S. et al., 2017; Alqethami and Aldhebiani, 2021). Roles of Experts in the Halal Food Industry in Enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia (Zaib et al., 2021) and Roles of Islamic Banking and Financial Experts in Enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits (RIBFEMPFNSA) (Ogunbado et al., 2017; Aigbovo and Abudu, 2018; Adekoya, 2022). A total of one hudrend and sixteen (116) scholarly articles met the inclusion criteria and were fully analyzed. Table 3 shows the Variables, Themes, Codes and Sources of the study.
Variables, themes, codes, and sources.
Variables
Themes
Codes
Sources
Medicinal plants sand fruits
• Potential Benefits of medicinal plants and fruits for the Halal Industry • Nigerian farmers to adapt to Saudi Arabian halal industry standards for the export of medicinal plants and fruits.
(PBMPFHI)
Azam and Abdullah, 2020; Akinsola et al., 2022; Hashim and Mohd Nor, 2022
(NFASAHIS)
Aworh, 2015; Abubakar U. S. et al., 2017; Alqethami and Aldhebiani, 2021
Islamic banking and finance experts
Roles of Experts in Halal Food Industry in enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
(EHFIEMPFNSA)
Zaib et al., 2021
Halal food industry
Roles of Islamic banking and financial experts in enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
(RIBFEMPFNSA)
Ogunbado et al., 2017; Aigbovo and Abudu, 2018; Adekoya, 2022
Results and discussion of findings
This section presents the key findings of the study using four overarching themes that emerged from the qualitative content analysis: Potential Benefits of Medicinal Plants and Fruits for the Halal Industry, Need for Nigerian Farmers to Adapt to Saudi Arabian Halal Standards, Roles of Halal Food Industry Experts in Enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits and Roles of Islamic Banking and Financial Experts in Enhancing Medicinal Plants and Fruits. Each of these is explained in the subsequent paragraphs.
First, Nigeria possesses rich biodiversity with numerous medicinal plants and fruits that hold significant potential for the halal industry, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Despite this diversity, research on halal medicinal products in Nigeria remains limited. Existing studies mainly focus on anti-infective and cardiovascular uses, with limited exploration into antiviral and neurological applications (Osemene and Fakile, 2019; Nazaruddin et al., 2023). Traditional herbs such as ginger and garlic, widely used in Nigerian communities, are also recognized in halal medicinal contexts, creating opportunities for integration into Saudi markets. Strengthened bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria can support this integration, particularly given the rising demand for halal-compliant products due to the expanding global Muslim population (Alqethami and Aldhebiani, 2021; Mat Ali et al., 2023). Saudi Arabia's advanced halal market can benefit from Nigeria's herbal resources, diversifying its offerings while leveraging shared cultural traditions of herbal medicine use (Nurrachmi, 2018; Alzahrani, 2019; Herdiana, 2025). However, issues such as limited research capacity, inadequate certification structures, and low awareness in Nigeria remain barriers to progress (Okunlola et al., 2007; Mas'ad and Abd Wakil, 2020). Collaborative initiatives—such as joint research, shared cultivation techniques, and improved certification systems—would strengthen Nigeria's capacity to supply halal-certified medicinal plants (Oguntade and Oluwalana, 2011; Nurrosyidah and Syakur, 2024; Ugboko et al., 2020; Chukwuma et al., 2015). Establishing a functional halal certification system and enhancing farmer training could further facilitate Nigeria's entry into the Saudi halal medicinal market (Oladele, 2011; Olowo et al., 2022). Additionally, halal certification enhances consumer trust, ensuring compliance with Shariah requirements and boosting market acceptability (Azam, 2016; Arifani, 2024).
Second, successful entry of Nigerian medicinal plants into Saudi Arabian markets requires adherence to halal supply chain principles that emphasize purity, traceability, and Shariah compliance (Akbar et al., 2023; Dashti et al., 2024; Abd El-Ghani, 2016). Nigerian farmers must align farming, processing, and handling practices with the halal and tayyib principles to ensure that agricultural outputs meet international halal standards. Developing and harmonizing Nigerian standards with global halal guidelines is essential for competitiveness. Capacity-building through training, extension services, and certification awareness programs would enhance compliance and improve product quality (Aworh, 2015; Kurniawati and Cakravastia, 2023). Nonetheless, challenges persist, such as Nigeria's limited halal financing infrastructure, low SME awareness, and inadequate regulatory frameworks (Bahara et al., 2024). Establishing a national Halal Product Certification Department would provide regulatory oversight and facilitate access to Saudi and Gulf markets (Lawal et al., 2020; Rahman et al., 2024).
Collaborative training initiatives with Saudi institutions can transfer knowledge on sustainable cultivation, halal compliance, and post-harvest handling (Abdullahi and Isyaku, 2025). Investment in agricultural infrastructure—transportation, storage, and quality control—would further enhance export readiness. Nigeria's rich medicinal plant traditions and Saudi Arabia's advanced halal infrastructure position both countries for mutually beneficial collaboration. However, harmonizing regulatory frameworks and strengthening institutional capacity remain critical for maximizing this potential (Harati and Farzaneh, 2024; Harsanto et al., 2024b). Joint ventures between Nigerian producers and Saudi buyers could significantly increase Nigeria's share in the global halal botanical market (Hossain et al., 2016; Obianwuna et al., 2022; Hidayat and Witta, 2024).
Third, halal food industry experts play a central role in ensuring the Shariah compliance, safety, and commercialization of medicinal plants and fruit-based products. Their responsibilities span certification, research and development, sustainable production, and consumer education. Experts ensure compliance with halal dietary laws by verifying that medicinal plant products are free from prohibited substances and produced using acceptable methods. Certifying processing facilities, farming operations, and packaging materials helps build consumer confidence in both countries (Daramola et al., 2018; Kurniawati and Cakravastia, 2023). Research and innovation led by halal experts support the development of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and herbal supplements that meet halal standards. This includes identifying bioactive compounds, optimizing processing methods, and cultivating climateappropriate plant varieties in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia (Opara and Udourioh, 2023; Herdiana et al., 2023). Experts also support sustainable agriculture by promoting ethical farming practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and product quality (Sani Yahuza and Binti Abdul Aziz, 2023). Leveraging underutilized resources such as Moringa in Nigeria and Sidr in Saudi Arabia can strengthen local economies and increase market diversity. Further, experts collaborate with policymakers to create regulations that support halal herbal products, align with international halal standards (e.g., GCC, SMIIC), and facilitate cross-border trade (Bommakanti et al., 2023). Consumer education initiatives, branding strategies, and Shariah guidance help promote awareness of halal medicinal products and encourage market uptake. Nigeria's biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge, combined with Saudi Arabia's strong halal infrastructure, create complementary strengths that halal food experts can harness to enhance cross-country collaboration (Harsanto et al., 2024a; Hidayat et al., 2022).
Fourth, Islamic banking and financial experts are pivotal in providing Shariah-compliant financing and investment structures that support the cultivation, processing, and commercialization of medicinal plants and fruits. Islamic financial instruments such as Mudarabah, Musharakah, Murabaha, and Ijarah can fund agricultural activities without interest—supporting equipment acquisition, farm inputs, processing technologies, and valueadded production (Ahyar and Wibowo, 2019; Yusoff et al., 2022). Islamic banking can also fund halal certification costs and quality assurance processes to ensure Shariah compliance (Lestari and Wiryono, 2023; Salim, 2022; Majid and Sukmana, 2023). Impact investing and Islamic venture capital can support startups focused on medicinal plants like Moringa, Hibiscus, Neem, Date fruit, and Sidr. The establishment of green sukuk enables sustainable financing for ecofriendly farming and halal biopharmaceutical research (Hassan et al., 2017; Hassan, 2019). Islamic philanthropic funds—zakat, waqf, and sadaqah—can support poor farmers, youth entrepreneurs, and community health initiatives reliant on herbal medicines (Takhim et al., 2023; Sani Yahuza and Binti Abdul Aziz, 2023; Gunarto and Yanti, 2024; Osuide, 2002). Structured trade finance using Shariah-compliant instruments can facilitate cross-border exchange between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia (Hassan, 2020; Al-kayed and Aliani, 2020; Mahboob et al., 2025). Nigeria can leverage Islamic microfinance to empower rural herbal farmers, strengthen cooperatives, and promote the export of traditional medicinal plants to OIC markets. In Saudi Arabia, integrating medicinal plants within Vision 2030′s goals for health and economic diversification—such as research on Tibb al-Nabawi—can further advance the sector.
Furthermore, collaboration between Islamic banking professionals and halal industry experts from both countries can significantly strengthen the medicinal plants and fruits value chain (Adachukwu and Yusuf, 2014; Bamidele et al., 2017). Islamic banking provides ethical and asset-backed financing to support sustainable agriculture and innovation (Bello and Jaiyeoba, 2021; Abdullahi, 2019). This shared-risk model encourages investment in farming and processing enterprises (Aleid, 2024) while ensuring activities remain socially responsible (Lawal et al., 2020). Knowledge exchange between Nigerian and Saudi experts enhances efficiency, productivity, and quality control (Moneim and Sulieman, 2019; Manourová et al., 2019). However, regulatory inconsistencies, limited awareness of Islamic finance, and fragmented halal certification standards remain barriers requiring policy attention. Strengthening halal certification systems in Nigeria, improving supply chain traceability, and establishing unified standards would facilitate smoother integration into the Saudi halal market (Lawal et al., 2010). Collaborative efforts would promote highquality halal-certified botanical products, increase consumer trust, and drive investment into a Shariah-compliant agricultural value chain (Bujang et al., 2023; Adekoya, 2022). Based on the overall discussion of findings, Figure 1 shows the conceptual framework of the study that can be empirically investigated by the future studies.
Conceptual framework of the study: adapted from (Salim, 2022; Majid and Sukmana, 2023; Kurniawati and Cakravastia, 2023; Herdiana et al., 2023; Arifani, 2024; Hidayat and Witta, 2024; Nurrosyidah and Syakur, 2024; Harsanto et al., 2024a).
Flowchart depicting the relationship between the halal food industry in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, highlighting potential benefits of medicinal plants and fruits, the need for Nigerian farmers to adapt to Saudi Arabian halal standards, roles of halal food industry experts, and roles of Islamic banking and financial experts in enhancing medicinal plants and fruits.Implications and policy directions of the study
Engaging Islamic banking, finance experts, and Halal industry professionals in the development and trade of medicinal plants and fruits between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria carries significant economic, ethical, and developmental implications. Islamic finance—with its emphasis on ethical investment, risk-sharing, and prohibition of riba—provides a natural platform for supporting agricultural and herbal-medicine value chains. Shariah-compliant financing instruments such as mudarabah (profit-sharing) and musharakah (joint ventures) can fund joint agricultural projects, processing facilities, and research activities involving medicinal plants and fruits. These mechanisms enable the expansion of Halal-certified botanical products within the Saudi market, strengthen cross-border trade, and improve market access for Nigerian herbal and fruit-based products in GCC states. Additionally, Halal-certified supply chains can attract investors, create jobs in farming, processing, logistics, and certification services, and position Nigeria as a strategic supplier of medicinal raw materials to Saudi Arabia.
Islamic social finance tools, including Zakat, Waqf, and Sadaqah, can be leveraged to support community-level cultivation, processing, and distribution of medicinal plants, particularly in rural Nigeria. Such approaches promote poverty alleviation, rural employment, and sustainable agriculture aligned with Islamic principles of environmental stewardship. Waqf-funded research centers focusing on medicinal botany and herbal pharmacology can be established to strengthen innovation and knowledge generation. Islamic microfinance schemes can empower smallholder farmers with interest-free loans or profit-sharing arrangements, facilitating the scalable cultivation of medicinal crops and enhancing local livelihoods. Islamic financial institutions can also play a key role in research and development of phytopharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Joint Saudi–Nigerian research centers or university collaborations can foster innovation in functional foods, herbal medicines, and Halal nutraceuticals while protecting intellectual property and traditional knowledge. This collaboration can also support the issuance of Shariah-compliant Sukuk to finance large-scale botanical research and product development, creating avenues for sustainable investment in the sector.
Halal industry experts ensure that cultivation, processing, and extraction methods comply with Islamic dietary laws, which is critical for global market acceptance. By promoting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), these experts enhance consumer trust and facilitate the adoption of Nigerian botanicals in Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority markets. Harmonized Halal guidelines between Saudi Arabia's SFDA and Nigeria's NAFDAC can strengthen certification infrastructure, improve training and compliance mechanisms, and support standardized quality assurance across the supply chain. Promoting Halal-certified medicinal plants also has important health and socio-cultural benefits. Certified products provide affordable, trusted alternatives for primary healthcare in underserved areas, offering anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Such initiatives encourage the integration of traditional medicine within formal healthcare frameworks, enhance public confidence in natural remedies, and promote the ethical and spiritual values of Halal and Tayyib (pure and wholesome) foods.
Finally, integrating Halal standards, Islamic finance instruments, and botanical trade can deepen strategic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. This partnership can strengthen bilateral trade under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), facilitate technology transfer and capacity building, and serve as a model for broader collaboration in food security, herbal medicine, and sustainable agriculture. Policymakers should focus on developing bilateral Halal certification frameworks, supporting research and innovation centers, strengthening Nigeria's Halal infrastructure, and promoting Shariah-compliant financing and social finance tools to maximize economic, cultural, and health benefits for both countries.
Conclusion and suggestions
This paper has highlighted the growing demand for Halal foods in Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, driven by population growth and increasing purchasing power. The Halal food industry in Saudi Arabia shows significant potential to incorporate Nigeria's medicinal plants and fruits, offering opportunities for diversification and market expansion. Addressing challenges such as regulatory gaps, certification inconsistencies, and limited consumer awareness is crucial for maintaining trust and enhancing the competitiveness of Halal products. Despite progress in Nigeria's Halal food industry, challenges remain, particularly in establishing a cohesive certification framework to improve consumer confidence and facilitate market access. The sustainable growth and collaboration of the Halal food sector between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria depend on overcoming these barriers. Islamic banking and finance experts play a pivotal role in aligning the medicinal plant and fruit sectors with ethical, sustainable, and Shariah-compliant financial models. By doing so, they contribute to economic empowerment, public health improvement, and environmental sustainability in both countries. Engaging Halal food experts in developing the medicinal plant and fruit sectors goes beyond religious compliance; it integrates science, commerce, health, and faith-based ethics into a mutually beneficial framework. This approach can boost regional economies, promote public health, and foster Islamic solidarity in sustainable development. Based on the findings, the following suggestions are proposed:
Stakeholders in Islamic banking and finance should navigate regulatory and operational frameworks to integrate Nigerian medicinal plants and fruits into the Saudi Halal food industry without compromising Shariah principles.
Enhancing consumer awareness is essential to improve compliance and adoption of Halal-certified medicinal plants and fruits.
A unified regulatory framework and consensus among Shariah scholars and Islamic finance experts are necessary to address ethical considerations in the trade of Nigerian medicinal plants.
Collaboration between the Muslim community, the food industry, and certifying agencies is vital for establishing a reliable Halal food system.
Establishing a unified Halal certification system in Nigeria can streamline processes, enhance credibility, and facilitate market entry into Saudi Arabia.
Zakat, Waqf, and Sadaqah-based funding mechanisms should be utilized to establish Waqf-based farms for cultivating medicinal plants.
Collaborative research centers in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria can strengthen knowledge, improve product quality, and support export-oriented initiatives.
Zakat funds can be deployed to support poor farmers or unemployed youth in both countries.
Islamic finance experts should develop structured trade finance models linking Nigerian producers with Saudi and global Halal markets.
Saudi firms can partner with Nigerian farmers to promote Halal-certified medicinal plants and fruits internationally, tapping into the growing Halal consumer base.
Further research is needed to examine the complexity and risks in Islamic financing, as well as the role of Shariah supervisory boards and regulatory frameworks.
Future studies should focus on optimizing extraction methods and exploring the applications of medicinal plants and fruits in modern medicine.
Data availability statement
The datasets generated and/or analyzed during the current study are based on the content analysis of secondary data used in this study.
The author(s) declared that this work was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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Edited by: Suranjoy Singam, University of Guelph, Canada
Reviewed by: Abdel Moneim Elhadi Sulieman, University of Hail, Saudi Arabia