Nigeria’s economy recorded a 3.98 percent growth in the third quarter of 2025, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The expansion was led by the non‑oil sector, particularly agriculture and services. Nominal GDP rose to N113.59 trillion, while real GDP reached N57.03 trillion for the same period.
The agriculture sector expanded by 3.79 percent, up from the 2.55 percent growth recorded in the third quarter of 2024. Services remain the largest contributor to output, accounting for 53.02 percent of total GDP, followed by agriculture at 31.21 percent. Other notable performers in the quarter included information and communications technology, financial services, real estate, and trade.
Despite these positive macroeconomic indicators, many Nigerians continue to struggle with high living costs. Economists point to a disconnect between macroeconomic gains and micro‑economic realities, citing weak transmission mechanisms as a major obstacle. Elevated costs stem from high transportation, energy, and storage expenses, as well as persistent security challenges.
Experts such as Prof. Segun Ajibola and Gbolade Idakolo caution that an improved GDP growth rate signals macroeconomic stability but does not automatically translate into better living conditions for ordinary Nigerians. They stress the need for coordinated monetary, fiscal, and political actions to strengthen the links between nominal and real segments of the economy.
Other analysts, including Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu and Prof. Godwin Oyedokun, also warn that the GDP growth figure may not fully reflect current economic realities. While growth appears on paper, Nigerians have yet to feel its impact in daily life. Prof. Oyedokun described the situation as a “mixed picture,” noting that gains from agricultural growth have not led to lower living costs or improved welfare.
The experts agree that targeted interventions are required to address structural challenges, such as improving security in farming communities, reducing logistics costs, and enhancing storage and processing facilities. Until these issues are resolved, GDP growth will remain encouraging on paper but distant from everyday realities.
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