Nigeria’s non-oil exports experienced significant growth in 2025, increasing by 21% to $12.8 billion. This surge was driven by policy reforms implemented by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. The ministry’s 2025 review highlighted the expansion of trade activity, with overall trade value rising by 14%. Key non-oil exports included cocoa and cocoa derivatives, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, and shea butter.
The growth in non-oil exports was attributed to improved export processes, targeted trade reforms, and increased value addition across key sectors. The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) played a crucial role in strengthening export capacity, training 27,352 exporters and certifying 200 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) for international trade. The Women Export Fund also expanded access to trade finance for women-led enterprises, attracting over 67,000 applications and awarding grants to 146 women-led enterprises.
Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones generated over $500 million in export revenues and created more than 20,000 direct jobs, reinforcing their role as engines of export-led growth and industrialization. The ministry recorded significant progress in investment attraction, adopting a systems-driven approach that improved project visibility and reduced information gaps. Four priority investment projects valued at $13.7 billion progressed to advanced stages, representing a conversion rate of over 25% from $50.8 billion in signed Memoranda of Understanding.
The non-oil export sector showed significant growth, reaching a record high of 9.2 trillion in the first nine months of 2025, a 48% jump from the previous year. Key exports included cocoa, urea/fertilizer, and cashew nuts, with agricultural commodities dominating. However, the sector still faces challenges such as infrastructure deficits, bureaucracy, and processing gaps.
The growth in non-oil exports is a positive development for Nigeria’s economy, which has been diversifying its revenue streams in recent years. The government’s policy reforms and investment in trade infrastructure are expected to continue driving growth in the sector. As the country looks to increase its global competitiveness, addressing the challenges facing the non-oil export sector will be crucial to sustaining this growth momentum.
