Nigeria’s exports to African countries rose to N4.82 trillion in the first half of 2025, marking a 14% increase year-on-year from N4.21 trillion in H1 2024, data reviewed by Ecofin Agency show.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figures reveal that West Africa remained Nigeria’s largest export market, absorbing more than 62% of the country’s continental shipments. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) bloc purchased N2.995 trillion worth of Nigerian goods, a 16% rise compared with the same period last year.
Fuel topped the list of exports to the region, with ECOWAS buying nearly N298 billion worth of Nigerian petroleum products.
Nigeria’s Export Position in Africa Still Limited
Despite the growth, exports to Africa accounted for only about 10% of Nigeria’s total exports in H1 2025, estimated at N43.3 trillion. Africa remained the country’s fourth-largest export destination, following:
- Europe: N17.3 trillion
- Asia: N14.1 trillion
- Americas: N6.9 trillion
Nigeria’s Push to Strengthen Regional Trade
Nigeria has intensified efforts to deepen intra-African trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. In May 2025, the government introduced an air freight corridor to East Africa, aimed at reducing export costs to the region by 50% to 75%.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand Nigeria’s presence across Africa and reduce logistical barriers that have historically limited trade growth.
Customs Chief Highlights Nigeria’s Emerging Role
Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, told Bloomberg that the rising export trend underlines Nigeria’s growing status “as a hub for intra-continental trade and value chains.”
He described the figures as “a clear signal of strengthening regional trade momentum,” suggesting Nigeria is increasingly positioning itself as a central player in African commerce.