Nigeria's exports to East, Southern Africa reach N1.03 trillion in Q1 2026
via Punch Nigeria13 min read
Nigeria's exports to Eastern and Southern African countries increased by 42.95 percent, reaching N1.03 trillion in the first quarter of 2026. This growth, up from N718.79 billion in Q1 2025, highlights the increasing importance of intra-African trade. The Federal Government is actively pursuing the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA to boost market access for Nigerian businesses. On June 19, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in partnership with RwandAir, launched an expanded air cargo corridor. This initiative extends export routes to Kigali, Lusaka, and Harare, and provides an additional carrier option for Nairobi and Johannesburg. Cargo rates on RwandAir routes are set at under $2 per kilogram for exporters with AfCFTA Certificates of Origin, a significant reduction from previous costs of $3 to $10 per kilogram. Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, stated that the original corridor, launched in 2025, led to a 40 percent increase in export volumes in its first year. Ethiopia emerged as the fastest-growing export destination, with N132.10 billion in exports during Q1 2026, while South Africa remained the largest market. Imports from Eastern and Southern African countries decreased by 4.09 percent to N273.21 billion, widening Nigeria's trade surplus with the region. The government aims to leverage improved logistics and lower transportation costs to enhance non-oil exports and industrial productivity.
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