AfCFTA Boosts Nigeria’s Intra-African Trade to $9.02bn as Regional Exports Surge 21%

Nigeria’s trade with other African countries recorded a significant leap in 2025, reaching $9.02 billion and marking a 21 per cent increase from the $7.47 billion recorded in 2024. The growth underscores the growing impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which continues to create new opportunities for businesses across the continent by promoting easier market access and reducing trade restrictions.

According to the African Trade Report 2026 released by Afreximbank, Nigeria has further strengthened its position as one of Africa’s leading trading nations. The report attributed the impressive performance to the country’s increasing focus on regional commerce and deliberate efforts to take advantage of the AfCFTA framework, which is designed to enhance trade among African nations and drive economic integration.

While crude oil remained Nigeria’s largest export to African markets, the report noted a steady expansion in non-oil exports. Products such as chemicals, plastics, rubber goods, processed agricultural products, food items, urea, and cement are gaining traction across the continent, reflecting ongoing efforts to diversify the nation’s export base and reduce reliance on oil revenues.

A major milestone highlighted in the report was the gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions in April 2025. This development enabled Nigerian products to qualify for preferential tariff treatment across participating AfCFTA member countries, making locally produced goods more competitive while also opening wider markets for domestic manufacturers and exporters.

Further boosting trade growth, Nigeria introduced new logistics initiatives, including a dedicated air cargo corridor connecting the country with East and Southern Africa. Afreximbank said the initiative is helping to lower transportation costs, improve delivery efficiency, and strengthen the competitiveness of Nigerian exports. As Africa’s single market continues to expand, Nigeria appears increasingly positioned to benefit from deeper regional trade ties and a growing continental consumer base.

source: vanguard