0
0
Nigeria’s non-oil export sector recorded a historic milestone in 2025, with export value reaching $6.1 billion and market coverage expanding to 210 countries, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has disclosed.
Executive Director of NEPC, Nonye Ayeni, revealed the figures in Abuja during a conference titled “Strengthening Women-led Businesses for Resilience, Recovery and Inclusive Economic Growth.” She said the performance reflects Nigeria’s rising capacity as a regional and global trade hub.
According to Ayeni, Nigeria exported 281 products across Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and Oceania, with a presence in 36 African countries, including 11 within ECOWAS.
“In 2025, Nigeria recorded its highest-ever non-oil export value at $6.1 billion and a record volume of 8.02 million metric tonnes. These are the highest figures since the Council’s establishment,” she said. “Nigeria has what it takes to serve as a trade hub within ECOWAS, Africa, and beyond. Our export diversification is gaining traction across multiple markets.”
Ayeni attributed the growth to sustained policy support, NEPC interventions, and the pivotal role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which account for about 96% of businesses in Nigeria. She added that women make up roughly 40% of SME operators, underscoring their importance to export expansion.
Special Adviser to the President on Export Expansion, Aliyu Sheriff, stressed the need to prioritise women-led enterprises. “Our women must not just participate in trade; they must compete, dominate, and lead,” he said, urging stakeholders to address barriers to finance and market access.
Nichole Mensah, Special Assistant to the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), noted that women-led businesses in Nigeria continue to drive innovation despite structural challenges. She highlighted the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy initiative, adding that Nigeria is among the countries benefiting from the programme, which supports women-owned businesses in competing globally.
