ABUJA, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria has recently banned the export of wood and related products to curb illegal logging and deforestation across the country, local media reported on Thursday.

The government will also revoke all previously issued licenses and permits, according to media reports, quoting Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal as saying at the 18th meeting of the National Council on Environment in the northwestern state of Katsina on Wednesday.

Lawal cited a presidential executive order regarding the prohibition of exportation of wood and allied products, noting that the move aimed to address the illegal logging and deforestation across the most populous African country.

"Nigeria's forests are central to environmental sustainability, providing clean air and water, supporting livelihoods, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating the effects of climate change," the official said.

Local security agencies had been directed to enforce a total clampdown on illegal logging activities in the country, under the new policy, he added. Enditem