Nigeria’s drive to reduce dependence on crude oil produced its strongest results in years in 2025, with non-oil exports reaching N12.36 trillion, up from N9.09 trillion the previous year, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The figure, drawn from the latest Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics report, reflects a sharp increase that builds on a strong rebound recorded in 2024 after non-oil exports fell to N2.56 trillion in 2023.
Mineral products led the non-oil categories in 2025. Agricultural exports also contributed meaningfully, with vegetable products valued at N1.54 trillion, while live animals and animal products accounted for N103.4 billion. Cocoa remained the standout agricultural commodity, with standard and superior quality beans shipped primarily to the Netherlands and Belgium, which together absorbed the majority of Nigeria’s cocoa volumes. Cashew nuts and sesame seeds also registered strong performances.
Industrial sectors added further weight to the total. Vehicles, aircraft and associated transport equipment generated N1.10 trillion, base metals and metal products contributed N646.16 billion, and machinery and mechanical appliances accounted for N207.48 billion.
Despite the broad-based growth, concentration risk remains a concern. Cocoa dominates the agricultural export mix, leaving earnings exposed to global price swings. Soya bean exports also declined sharply during the year, reflecting domestic production pressures and stiffer competition in international markets.
Analysts note that sustaining the momentum will require continued investment in infrastructure, improved trade policy and stronger support for export-oriented industries. The naira depreciation since mid-2023 has boosted the naira value of export receipts, though dollar-denominated performance tells a more nuanced story of the diversification effort.
