As Nigeria continues to diversify its economy away from crude oil, the non-oil export sector is showing strong signs of progress. In the first quarter of 2025, the country recorded non-oil exports worth $1.791 billion—an impressive 24.75% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth highlights the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to expand Nigeria’s economic base and strengthen trade in agriculture, mining, and industry.
Leading Non-Oil Export Commodities
According to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), several products stood out as top contributors to the country’s non-oil export earnings in early 2025:
1. Cocoa and Derivatives
Cocoa beans, cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, and cocoa cake made up 45.02% of total non-oil exports. These products remain Nigeria’s leading agricultural exports, driven by consistent global demand.
2. Urea/Fertiliser
Accounting for 19.32% of non-oil exports, Nigeria’s fertiliser sector continues to thrive, thanks to large-scale production and growing international markets.
3. Cashew Nuts
With 5.81% of total exports, cashew nuts remain a valuable crop, especially in Asia and Europe.
4. Sesame Seeds
A staple in many global cuisines, sesame remains one of Nigeria’s most important agricultural exports.
5. Gold Dore
This semi-pure gold product signals a growing mining sector, contributing significantly to export revenue.
6. Aluminium and Copper Ingots
Processed metals like aluminium and copper show that Nigeria’s industrial sector is gradually expanding its reach into international markets.
7. Charcoal
Nigeria continues to export large quantities of unbranded hardwood charcoal, particularly to Europe and the Middle East, where demand remains strong for clean-burning, eco-friendly fuels.
8. Soya Beans
Soya products continue to serve as a reliable export commodity, particularly in the food and animal feed industries.
These top commodities reflect Nigeria’s rich natural resources and growing capacity in processing and value addition.
Export Destinations
Nigerian non-oil products are reaching more global destinations, especially within Africa:
– ECOWAS Member States: In Q1 2025, exports to 10 ECOWAS countries totaled $63.06 million, representing 3.52% of total non-oil exports. This marks a remarkable 223% increase from the previous year.
– Other African Countries: Beyond ECOWAS, Nigeria exported $32.73 million worth of goods to other African nations, making up 1.83% of total non-oil exports.
Strategic Moves
In a significant development, Nigeria signed a minerals cooperation agreement with South Africa in April 2025. This deal aims to promote joint exploration and geological mapping of energy and agro-related minerals, strengthening ties and boosting resource development.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s non-oil export sector is gaining momentum. With a strong mix of agricultural and mineral products, increasing demand in regional and global markets, and supportive trade partnerships, Nigeria is clearly on the path toward a more resilient and diversified economy.
For individuals and businesses looking to enter this space, Terra Commodities offers a gateway. If you’re interested in exporting charcoal, cashew, sesame, or other agro commodities, you can get started through training programs or investment opportunities.
We provide hands-on guidance across sourcing, quality control, logistics, and compliance—helping new exporters and investors confidently participate in Nigeria’s growing non-oil trade landscape.
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