Lagos, Nigeria — In the first quarter of 2026, Nigeria’s non-oil exports have reached nearly $1 billion, marking a 38. 68% increase year on year. This significant growth reflects the nation’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy away from its reliance on oil.
Export container traffic nearly doubled, rising from 9,722 units in Q1 2025 to 19,014 in the same period this year, a 95. 58% increase.
The surge in non — oil exports, which now account for a substantial portion of the nation’s revenue, points to the success of the Nigerian government’s diversification policies.
The most significant increase occurred in March, with exports surging by 135. 83% to $425. 48 million, compared to $171.
76 million in March 2025. Revenue linked to export activity also saw a rise, with export surcharge collections increasing from N163. 66 million to N199.
36 million, and collections under the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme rising from N5. 01 billion to N6. 03 billion.
This growth in revenue streams suggests that sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and solid minerals are gaining ground.
The increase in non — oil exports is a testament to the Nigerian Customs Service’s efforts to improve trade facilitation, reduce port bottlenecks, and boost export competitiveness.
The Service’s collections have been steadily rising, exceeding its 2025 target by N697 billion, equivalent to $465 million. While the growth is promising, analysts emphasize the need for consistent policy implementation, stable exchange rates, and continued investment in infrastructure to sustain this momentum.
The surge in non — oil exports provides a glimpse of a more diversified and stable economic future for Nigeria.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Segun Adeyemi
