June 16, 2025 – Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria has recorded a ₦5.17 trillion trade surplus in the first quarter of 2025, indicating a strong export performance and growing economic resilience despite prevailing global and domestic challenges.
According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), total exports during the period stood at ₦15.19 trillion, while imports were valued at ₦10.02 trillion. The resulting trade surplus points to an improved balance of trade compared to previous quarters.
Crude oil remained Nigeria’s primary export, contributing over 70 percent of total export earnings. However, there was also a noticeable increase in non-oil exports such as agricultural produce, solid minerals, and manufactured goods, attributed to government policies encouraging diversification and local production.
Major trading partners for Nigeria during the period included India, Spain, the Netherlands, Indonesia, and France for exports, while imports were largely sourced from China, India, the Netherlands, and the United States.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Anite, commended the development, describing it as a sign that the administration’s trade and industrial policies are yielding positive results.
Analysts believe the surplus will ease pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves and may help stabilise the naira in the medium term. However, they warn that sustaining this trend will require continued investment in infrastructure, processing capacity, and fiscal discipline.
