Nigeria’s Intra-African Exports Rise by 14% as Regional Trade Strengthens

Nigeria Records Significant 14% Surge in Continental Exports

Nigeria’s trade relations within the continent have strengthened significantly, with total exports to African countries rising by 14% in the latest reporting period. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), this growth underscores a strategic pivot toward regional integration and reflects the initial impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on the nation’s non oil sector performance.

Regional Trade Expansion and Economic Diversification

The 14% surge in intra-African exports marks a critical milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to reduce its historical reliance on European and Asian markets. The NBS report indicates that manufactured goods and agricultural products are the primary drivers of this increase. This shift aligns with the Federal Government’s objective to enhance the "Made in Nigeria" brand and improve the trade balance within the ECOWAS sub-region and the broader continent.

Analysts suggest that the removal of certain trade barriers and the harmonization of customs protocols under regional agreements have facilitated smoother transit for Nigerian exporters. The growth is particularly visible in the export of chemicals, plastic rubber, and processed food items, which have found expanding markets in neighbouring West African countries and emerging partners in East Africa.

Leading Trade Partners and Commodity Drivers

While crude oil remains a component of the export profile, the growth in the current period is largely attributed to the non oil segment. South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana remain among Nigeria’s top trading partners on the continent. Specifically, the export of urea, cement, and locally manufactured cables contributed significantly to the revenue uptick.

According to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), the implementation of the Export Expansion Grant (EEG) has incentivized local manufacturers to scale production for regional demand. Furthermore, the stabilization of trade corridors and improved maritime logistics between Nigerian ports and other African hubs have reduced the cost of doing business, making Nigerian goods more competitive.

Challenges to Sustained Export Growth

Despite the positive trajectory, several structural bottlenecks continue to limit the full potential of intra-African trade. Logistics remains a primary concern; high transportation costs and infrastructural deficits at land borders often offset the gains made through tariff reductions.

Additionally, Nigerian exporters face challenges regarding currency volatility and varying regulatory standards across different African markets. To maintain the current 14% growth rate, policymakers must prioritize the digitisation of trade documents and the enhancement of cross-border payment systems to ensure seamless financial transactions.

Strategic Outlook for 2026

The current data suggests that Nigeria is successfully repositioning itself as an industrial hub for the African continent. As the AfCFTA framework matures, the volume of trade is expected to increase further, provided the government maintains its focus on ease of doing business and critical infrastructure development. For investors and manufacturers, the 14% increase serves as a proof of concept for the viability of regional value chains.