Nigeria’s exports to African countries surged sharply in the third quarter of 2025.
The value jumped 97.16 percent year on year to N4.9 trillion.
This growth signals a strategic shift toward emerging and regional markets.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics highlighted stronger intra-African trade flows.
Exports rose from N2.49 trillion recorded in the third quarter of 2024.
Meanwhile, shipments to key Western markets showed notable declines.
Nigeria’s trade engagement with BRICS countries expanded significantly during the period.
Exports to China increased by over 230 percent to N2.26 trillion.
Similarly, exports to Brazil climbed nearly 20 percent year on year.
In contrast, exports to India fell sharply by more than 50 percent.
Trade with the United States also declined by nearly 56 percent.
These drops reflected worsening trade conditions and rising tariff pressures.
US trade data confirmed the downward trend in Nigerian exports.
Between January and September 2025, US imports from Nigeria fell substantially.
The decline followed the introduction of a 14 percent tariff on Nigerian goods.
Industry stakeholders say exporters are actively adjusting to these challenges.
Manufacturers increasingly view BRICS markets as viable alternatives.
They cite fewer trade barriers and easier market access.
Experts argue that diversification has become essential for Nigerian exporters.
Higher compliance costs and currency risks reduce US market attractiveness.
Meanwhile, emerging markets show stronger demand for Nigerian products.
Business leaders also point to uncertainty around key US trade agreements.
They urge Nigeria to deepen African trade under the AfCFTA framework.
This approach could cushion exporters against external policy shocks.
Trade analysts describe the shift as strategic and long term.
Exporters are exploring Africa, BRICS, Turkey, and the UAE.
Overall, Nigeria is gradually reshaping its global trade footprint.
