Nigeria’s non-oil exports surge as informal trade gains traction
Nigeria’s non-oil exports have seen significant growth, driven by increased informal trade activity. Dr Jumoke Oduwole highlighted the country’s progress in export-led growth and diversification. The Central Bank of Nigeria and the African Development Bank both noted the expanding role of informal trade in the nation’s economy. Several government reforms and digital initiatives are supporting this upward trend.
TLDR
- Nigeria’s non-oil exports rose to $9.32bn in 2025, a 24.93% increase from $7.46bn in 2024.
- Electricity exports grew 33.72% to $236.07m in 2025, while informal trade increased 29.73% to $252.86m.
- Dr Jumoke Oduwole reported non-oil exports reached $12.8bn in H1 2025, nearly double the $5bn target.
- Special Economic Zones generated over $500m in export revenues and created more than 20,000 direct jobs in 2025.
- The government aims to further formalise informal trade, strengthen digital infrastructure, and deepen industrial reforms in 2026.
