Nigeria exports surge as customs record strong growth

Nigeria's economic narrative is increasingly being shaped by a robust expansion in its non-oil export sector, a trend clearly reflected in the latest figures from the Nigeria Customs Service. The first quarter of 2026 has witnessed a remarkable surge, with export values climbing by nearly 40% year-on-year. This isn't just a statistical uptick; it signifies a tangible strengthening of our trade ecosystem and a testament to the effectiveness of the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing port operations and trade facilitation.

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exports processed in Q1 2026 stood at $925.84m, representing a 38.68 per cent increase compared to Q1 2025, while total containers handled rose to 19,014 from 9,722, indicating a 95.58 per cent growth.

The doubling of export containers handled within the same period is particularly noteworthy. It speaks volumes about improved logistics and increased capacity utilization at our ports. While January saw a minor dip, the rebound in February and the spectacular surge in March, which alone saw export values jump by over 135%, underscore a dynamic and resilient export performance. This momentum is crucial for the Federal Government's sustained efforts to diversify the economy away from its traditional reliance on crude oil.

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March 2026 recorded the highest export performance within the quarter at $425.48m, reflecting a 135.83 per cent increase year-on-year and driving the overall quarterly growth.

Furthermore, the growth in export-related revenue streams, such as surcharge and NESS collections, directly correlates with this increased export activity. It validates the strategy of fostering a more dynamic non-oil export base. From a Nigerian perspective, this data is more than just economic indicators; it represents tangible progress towards economic stability, job creation, and enhanced global competitiveness. It shows that our policies are translating into real-world gains, building confidence in Nigeria's economic future and its capacity to thrive beyond oil.

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export surcharge collections increased from N163.66m in Q1 2025 to N199.36m in Q1 2026, representing a growth of 21.81 per cent, while NESS collections rose from N5.01bn to N6.03bn, indicating a 20.15 per cent increase.