Nigeria’s Exports to Eastern and Southern Africa Reach N1 Trillion


 

By Abdulahi Musa 

Nigeria's exports to countries in Eastern and Southern Africa rose significantly to N1 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest foreign trade statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

The report showed that the increase was driven largely by strong demand for crude oil, liquefied natural gas, agricultural products, and other non-oil exports from countries within the two African regions.

Data from the statistics agency indicated that the value of exports to Eastern and Southern Africa reflected growing trade ties under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost intra-African commerce and reduce trade barriers among member states.

Analysts say the performance highlights Nigeria's expanding presence in regional markets, particularly as the country seeks to diversify its export base beyond crude oil and strengthen economic partnerships across the continent.

The report also noted that the rise in exports contributed positively to Nigeria's overall trade performance during the quarter, with African markets accounting for an increasing share of the country's export destinations.

Economic experts have urged the Federal Government to sustain the momentum by improving transport infrastructure, simplifying export procedures, and supporting local manufacturers to enhance their competitiveness in regional markets.

They added that strengthening trade with African countries could help reduce dependence on traditional export markets outside the continent while creating new opportunities for businesses and boosting foreign exchange earnings.


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