Nigeria’s non-oil exports reach $5.45bn in 2024 – NEPC

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council has announced that the country’s trade volume in 2024 reached 7.2 metric tonnes, with a 20.7 per cent increase in value, totaling 5.45 billion dollars.

The Executive Director of NEPC, Dr Nonye Ayeni, made this statement during the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment’s retreat for the presentation of the 2025 roadmap on Monday in Abuja.

“In terms of value, we grew by 20.7 per cent to 5.45 billion dollars, and we are now represented in 126 countries.

“This is a clear indication that Nigeria is making significant progress.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is making a positive impact, and our efforts are showing results.

“We expect even better performance in 2025 as we continue to strengthen our drive,” Ayeni said.

Ayeni highlighted that the NEPC’s mandate was to diversify the nation’s economy away from oil dependency by promoting non-oil exports.

She emphasised the council’s commitment to building the capacity of exporters, from the farm gate to market access.

“We are dedicated to working with exporters, improving their capacity in good agricultural practices, and ensuring we achieve the council’s mandate,” Ayeni said.

She said in 2024, the NEPC conducted about 629 capacity-building programmes across the country, partnering with development organisations and agencies.

Ayeni stated that the council was working across all borders, from the North to the South and West, to mainstream export efforts.

“By mainstreaming these initiatives, we aim to increase the volume and value of non-oil exports, which will, in turn, help to build the capacity of exporters.

“We also want to offer international certifications to our exporters free of charge, enabling them to access niche markets and sell their products globally,” she said.

Additionally, Ayeni emphasised the NEPC’s focus on connecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with experienced exporters, offering training in various skill programmes.

“Our commitment to these efforts will significantly contribute to increasing the volume and value of Nigeria’s non-oil exports,” she said.

(NAN)