Nigeria exported 281 non-oil products to 120 countries in 2025, generating $6.1 billion in revenue, the Vice President of the World Trade Centre Abuja, Karim Ahmed, has disclosed.
Ahmed said the figure represented the country’s highest formally documented non-oil export performance.
He made the disclosure at the Premier Export Launchpad Bootcamp organised by the World Trade Centre Abuja.
Nigeria Expands Global Export Reach
According to Ahmed, the export figures showed that Nigerian products were already gaining access to international markets.
He said the development demonstrated that Nigeria had products and services capable of competing internationally.
These products and services cut across agriculture, manufacturing, technology, the creative economy and professional services.
However, Ahmed noted that gaining access to international markets was only one part of the export process.
He said Nigerian businesses must also develop the capacity to compete consistently and sustainably.
Businesses Must Improve Export Readiness
Ahmed identified several challenges that Nigerian businesses must overcome.
They include limited market knowledge, product standards, certification, logistics, documentation and payment systems.
He also stressed the importance of consistency in production and supply.
“The more important question is whether our businesses have the knowledge, systems, standards and consistency required to enter those markets successfully and remain competitive,” he said.
The statement highlights the need for businesses to understand the requirements of their target markets before attempting to export.
Exporters must also ensure that their products meet the quality and regulatory standards of importing countries.
Market Access Is Not Enough
Although the $6.1 billion performance is a positive development, businesses must maintain their presence in international markets.
This requires reliable supply chains, predictable production and effective delivery systems.
It also requires exporters to understand consumer preferences and respond to changes in global demand.
Without these improvements, businesses may struggle to retain international buyers even after securing initial contracts.
Bootcamp Targets Export Growth
The Premier Export Launchpad Bootcamp is designed to equip businesses with the knowledge and tools required to participate more effectively in international trade.
The programme provides an opportunity for businesses to understand export procedures and identify potential markets.
It also seeks to help participants improve their readiness for international competition.
Ahmed urged businesses to focus on building systems that can support long-term export growth.
Importance to Economic Diversification
The performance of Nigeria’s non-oil exports is important to the country’s economic diversification efforts.
For decades, crude oil has remained a major source of foreign exchange earnings. However, stronger non-oil exports could help broaden the country’s revenue base.
They could also create opportunities for job creation, industrial expansion and increased participation in global trade.
The challenge now is to ensure that more Nigerian businesses can move from occasional exports to sustainable international operations.
