Nigeria’s non-oil export sector recorded a remarkable 21 per cent growth, reaching $12.8 billion in the first half of 2025—almost double the initial target of $6.5 billion—contributing to a N12 trillion trade surplus. The surge reflects the impact of Federal Government trade reforms, enhanced export processes, and increased value addition across strategic sectors.

Key non-oil exports included cocoa and derivatives, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, shea butter, ginger, hibiscus flowers, rubber, palm oil derivatives, fertilizers, cement, clinker, and LNG. These gains were underpinned by collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and development partners, turning policy initiatives into measurable economic results.

The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, led by Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, highlighted programs such as exporter training for over 27,000 individuals, MSME certification, and the Women Export Fund supporting 146 women-led enterprises. Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones also generated over $500 million in export revenues, creating more than 20,000 jobs.

Significant efforts were made to advance digital trade and AfCFTA integration, including hosting the AfCFTA Secretariat, establishing a Central Coordination Committee, and gazetting Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions, enabling duty-free trade on 90 per cent of goods across Africa. The Ministry also launched an Exports Air Cargo Corridor with Uganda Airlines and UNDP, reducing logistics costs by up to 75 per cent and expanding access for manufactured and agricultural exports.

Overall, the review notes that Nigeria’s export-led growth strategy is enhancing industrial capacity, boosting investor confidence, and positioning the country as a leading hub for trade, digital services, and innovation in Africa.