Nigeria's non-oil export sector achieved a historic milestone in 2025, with export value reaching $6.1 billion and market access expanding to 210 countries, according to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
Record Performance Announced
Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director of NEPC, disclosed these figures during a conference in Abuja titled “Strengthening Women-led Businesses for Resilience, Recovery and Inclusive Economic Growth.” She noted that this performance underscores Nigeria's growing capacity as a regional and global trade hub.
According to Ayeni, the country exported 281 products across Africa, Asia, America, Europe, and Oceania, with a presence in 36 African countries, including 11 within ECOWAS.
“In 2025, Nigeria recorded the highest value of non-oil exports at $6.1 billion and the highest volume at 8.02 million metric tonnes. These are the highest in the country's history since the Council was established,” she said. “Nigeria has what it takes to serve as a trade hub within ECOWAS, Africa and beyond. Our export diversification is gaining traction across multiple markets.”
Role of SMEs and Women Entrepreneurs
Ayeni attributed the growth to sustained policy support, NEPC interventions, and the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which account for about 96% of businesses in Nigeria. She added that women represent roughly 40% of SME operators, making them central to export expansion.
Aliyu Sheriff, Special Adviser to the President on Export Expansion, emphasized the importance of prioritizing women-led enterprises. “Our women must not just participate in trade; they must compete, dominate and lead,” he said, urging stakeholders to address barriers to finance and market access.
International Support and Digital Economy
Nichole Mensah, Special Assistant to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), added that women-led businesses in Nigeria are driving innovation despite structural challenges. She highlighted the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy initiative, noting that Nigeria is among the countries benefiting from the program to help women-owned businesses compete globally.
