The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has announced a major milestone in the nation’s trade history: Nigeria exported 197 different products to the world in just the first quarter of 2025. This achievement marks a significant step forward for the country’s non-oil export sector and highlights the growing influence of Nigerian goods on the global stage.
Cocoa, Urea Fertilizer, and Sesame Seeds remain the shining stars of Nigeria’s export basket, but they are now joined by a wider range of products, including Cashew Nuts, Aluminum Ingots, Cocoa Butter, Copper Ingots, Soya Beans/Meal, Gold Dore, and Hibiscus Flower.
Experts say this mix shows Nigeria is moving beyond raw materials and into the production of semi-processed and manufactured goods, which adds more value to the economy.
Dr. Nonye Ayeni, the Executive Director and CEO of NEPC, shared the latest export figures at a major roundtable meeting in Abuja.
The event, which was themed “Strengthening Trade Facilitation and Digital Transformation in Nigeria through UN/CEFACT Standards,” brought together government officials, business leaders, and international trade experts.
“Nigeria’s export performance is on a steady rise,” Dr. Ayeni declared.
“Last year, we shipped over 7.2 million metric tonnes of goods worth $5.45 billion to 126 countries. That’s a 20.77% increase in value compared to 2023, and it’s all thanks to our ‘Go Global, Go for Certification’ campaign, which is helping Nigerian businesses improve the quality of their products and compete internationally.”
More Products, More Markets
The increase in the number of exported products—from 162 in Q1 2024 to 197 in Q1 2025—shows that Nigerian exporters are becoming more innovative and diverse.
“We’re not just sending out raw materials anymore,” Dr. Ayeni explained. “We’re now exporting processed and semi-processed goods, which means more jobs and more income for our people.”
NEPC’s efforts to support exporters have included training programs, trade missions, and help with international certifications. These initiatives are designed to make it easier for Nigerian businesses to meet global standards and access new markets.
“Our goal is to make sure every Nigerian business has the tools and knowledge to succeed abroad,” said Dr. Ayeni. “We’re working closely with the private sector and international partners to remove barriers and create more opportunities for our exporters.”
The Impact on Nigeria’s Economy
The growth in non-oil exports is having a positive ripple effect across the country. More jobs are being created in agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. More foreign currency is flowing into Nigeria, which helps stabilize the economy and supports the value of the naira. And more Nigerian brands are gaining recognition worldwide.
“This is a win for everyone,” said a local business owner who exports cashew nuts.
“We’re seeing more demand for our products, and that means we can hire more workers and invest in better equipment.”
Despite the progress, there are still challenges to overcome. Some exporters face difficulties with logistics, access to finance, and meeting international standards.
However, NEPC and other government agencies are working to address these issues through new policies and partnerships.
“We know there are hurdles, but we’re committed to helping our exporters overcome them,” Dr. Ayeni said. “With the right support, Nigeria can become a major player in global trade.”
A Look at the Future
Looking ahead, NEPC is focused on expanding Nigeria’s export markets even further. The agency is encouraging more businesses to explore opportunities in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, where demand for Nigerian products is growing.
“We want to see Nigerian goods in every corner of the world,” Dr. Ayeni said. “That’s why we’re investing in digital tools and trade facilitation measures to make exporting easier and more efficient.”
Quote of the Day
“Nigeria’s export story is just beginning. With every product we ship abroad, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous future for our nation.”
— Dr. Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/CEO, NEPC
Nigeria’s non-oil export sector is on an upward trajectory, with more products, more markets, and more value being created for the economy. Cocoa, Urea Fertilizer, and Sesame Seeds are leading the charge, but the real story is the growing diversity and quality of Nigerian exports. With continued support from the government and private sector, Nigeria is well on its way to becoming a global leader in non-oil exports. The future looks bright for Nigerian businesses and the millions of people whose livelihoods depend on this vital sector.
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