In 2025, Nigeria experienced a significant boost in regional commerce, with intra-African trade climbing 21 percent to reach $9.02 billion. This upward trend, documented in the African Trade Report 2026 by Afreximbank, highlights the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in creating new export pathways and reducing regional trade obstacles.
Nigeria’s trade volume grew from $7.47 billion in 2024 to $9.02 billion, reinforcing its status as a primary trading hub on the continent. This surge stems from a strategic push to minimize trade barriers and broaden market reach. Although crude oil remains the primary export, the country is actively diversifying its offerings. Significant non-oil exports now include urea, cement, processed agricultural items, plastics, rubber, and chemical products.
This diversification strategy aligns with Nigeria’s goal to lower reliance on external markets and provide domestic manufacturers better access to the expanding African consumer base. A pivotal moment occurred in April 2025 with the gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions. This measure allows Nigerian goods to benefit from preferential tariffs in other AfCFTA nations while facilitating reciprocal market access.
Furthermore, logistical advancements, such as a new air cargo route connecting Nigeria to East and Southern Africa, have been instrumental. By lowering transport expenses, these improvements have significantly enhanced the competitiveness of Nigerian exports throughout the region.
