NESG Urges Nigeria to Strengthen Quality Certification for Export Growth
Quality Certification Essential for Maximising Export Value, NESG Warns
The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has called for urgent improvements in Nigeria’s quality assurance and certification systems, arguing that stronger product standards are critical to enhancing export competitiveness and increasing the value the country derives from international trade. The recommendation comes despite Nigeria recording a significant trade surplus in the first quarter of 2026, as structural weaknesses continue to limit the country's export potential.
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According to the NESG, strengthening certification processes, improving product quality standards and addressing inefficiencies within the export ecosystem will be essential to boosting non-oil exports and helping Nigerian products compete more effectively in regional and global markets.
Export Rerouting Reducing Domestic Value Capture
The NESG identified export rerouting through neighbouring countries as a major challenge affecting Nigeria’s trade competitiveness. According to the group, many exporters continue to route products through other countries due to certification, logistics and infrastructure constraints, reducing the economic value retained within Nigeria.
The organisation stated that improving quality assurance mechanisms would help Nigerian products gain wider acceptance in international markets while reducing reliance on alternative export channels. It also noted that stronger certification systems could improve confidence among international buyers and increase demand for locally manufactured goods.
Focus on Non-Oil Export Expansion
The recommendations align with broader efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy away from crude oil dependence.
The NESG emphasised the need to expand exports of processed agricultural products and light manufactured goods, sectors viewed as having significant growth potential under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The group argued that greater value addition through processing and manufacturing would enable Nigeria to capture more export earnings and create additional employment opportunities.
Recent industry discussions have similarly highlighted the importance of moving beyond raw commodity exports towards higher-value finished products that can compete internationally.
Port Efficiency and Infrastructure Remain Critical
Beyond certification reforms, the NESG called for improvements in export procedures and port operations to reduce delays and logistics costs. The group noted that efficient ports and transportation networks are essential for improving the competitiveness of Nigerian exports and reducing barriers to trade.
Stakeholders have consistently identified infrastructure bottlenecks, lengthy clearance processes and high logistics costs as factors limiting export performance and increasing the cost of doing business. Investments in industrial processing zones and export-supporting infrastructure were also highlighted as priorities for strengthening Nigeria’s trade position.
Opportunities in Asian Markets
The NESG also encouraged Nigeria to deepen trade engagement with key Asian economies, particularly China and India.
According to the group, Asia accounted for more than half of Nigeria’s imports during the first quarter of 2026 but absorbed a significantly smaller share of exports. The organisation identified opportunities for Nigerian exporters to increase market penetration in the region, especially through improved product quality and compliance with international standards.
The group further pointed to China’s recently introduced tariff-free access initiative for African exports as a significant opportunity that Nigeria should leverage through improved export readiness and competitiveness.
Implications for Economic Growth
Export diversification remains a central component of Nigeria’s long-term economic strategy. Stronger quality certification systems can improve market access, support industrial development and increase foreign exchange earnings from non-oil sectors.
Industry experts argue that higher standards and internationally recognised certification frameworks can help local manufacturers expand into new markets while strengthening Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable trading partner. Recent efforts to promote quality certification among Nigerian manufacturers have also been linked to broader initiatives aimed at enhancing competitiveness under AfCFTA.
Outlook
As Nigeria seeks to expand its non-oil export base, policymakers and industry stakeholders are expected to place greater emphasis on quality assurance, certification compliance and trade facilitation measures. Improvements in these areas could help local businesses access larger markets, increase export revenues and reduce dependence on commodity exports.
Conclusion
The NESG’s recommendations highlight the growing importance of quality certification and standards compliance in Nigeria’s export ambitions. While the country continues to record positive trade performance, addressing certification gaps, improving port efficiency and encouraging value-added exports will be essential to unlocking greater economic benefits from international trade and strengthening Nigeria’s position in global markets.
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