Nigeria Records $6.1B Non-Oil Exports in 2025, Highest Ever: NEPC

<:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}> (NEPC) has reported a record $6.1 billion in non-oil exports for 2025, marking the highest level in the country’s history, with total export volumes reaching 8.02 million metric tonnes.

The milestone underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy away from crude oil dependence, with exports spanning 281 products across more than 120 countries, including 32 African markets, according to the agency.

Record Export Growth and Market Reach

The $6.1 billion export value represents a significant achievement for Nigeria’s non-oil sector, reflecting expanded product diversification and broader international market penetration. The 8.02 million metric tonnes shipped in 2025 highlight the scale of agricultural and industrial output contributing to export growth.

NEPC said the exports covered a wide range of commodities, reinforcing the increasing role of non-oil trade in supporting the country’s foreign exchange earnings and economic stability.

The agency emphasised that the expansion into over 120 global markets demonstrates improving competitiveness, particularly within Africa, where Nigeria exported to 32 countries, strengthening intra-regional trade ties.

To sustain export growth, NEPC has intensified efforts to improve compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, particularly in key agricultural value chains such as sesame and cowpea. These measures aim to reduce rejection rates of Nigerian products in international markets.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ workshop in Kano, NEPC Executive Director Nonye Ayeni highlighted the importance of strengthening compliance frameworks and improving communication among exporters, farmers and regulators.

The workshop brought together industry participants, including farmers, exporters, regulatory agencies and development partners, to develop strategies for enhancing adherence to global food safety standards.

Addressing Export Rejections and Market Barriers

Officials said non-compliance with technical and safety standards remains a major challenge for exporters, often resulting in rejected shipments and financial losses. The STDF 845 initiative is designed to address these issues by building capacity among producers and exporters.

According to the International Trade Centre, many small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries struggle to meet stringent global requirements, limiting their access to international markets.

Through targeted interventions, the programme aims to enhance awareness, improve technical knowledge and ensure that Nigerian exporters meet global benchmarks, thereby increasing acceptance rates and boosting overall export volumes.

The record performance highlights the growing importance of non-oil exports in Nigeria’s economic framework, as the government seeks to reduce reliance on volatile oil revenues and diversify income sources.

Key commodities such as sesame and cowpea continue to play a central role in export growth, supported by improved compliance with international standards and stronger stakeholder engagement.

NEPC stated that sustained investment in value addition, infrastructure and regulatory alignment will be critical to maintaining the upward trajectory of non-oil exports.

The agency also emphasised the need for continued collaboration between government institutions, private sector players and international partners to strengthen Nigeria’s position in global trade.

Outlook for Export Development

While challenges remain, including infrastructure gaps and compliance issues, the 2025 export figures signal progress in Nigeria’s trade diversification strategy. The NEPC said ongoing reforms and initiatives are expected to further enhance export performance in the coming years.

The agency reiterated its commitment to supporting exporters through policy advocacy, capacity building and market access initiatives, aimed at increasing Nigeria’s share in global trade and driving sustainable economic growth.

The latest data reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to build a resilient, export-driven economy, leveraging its agricultural and industrial potential to compete more effectively in international markets.