Nigeria’s Exports to Niger Surge by 77% in 2024 Despite Diplomatic Strain
Samuel Mobolaji
Nigeria’s exports to Niger Republic soared by 77.12% in 2024, reaching N82.38 billion, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This surge is part of a broader recovery in trade, with total commerce between the two nations climbing to N91.92 billion, a sharp increase from N50.48 billion in 2023.
Despite ongoing diplomatic tensions, including the July 2023 coup in Niger, Nigerian goods saw a remarkable demand, accounting for nearly 90% of the total trade.
Imports from Niger also rose, reaching N9.53 billion in 2024, up from N3.97 billion the previous year. The rebound signals a gradual improvement in economic exchanges following the political instability that led to sanctions by ECOWAS, which included border closures and financial restrictions.
Nigeria remains a key supplier of essential goods to Niger, including agricultural products, petroleum, and manufactured goods. Notably, cigarettes were a major export, with N9.34 billion worth shipped to Niger in the fourth quarter alone. Imports from Niger into Nigeria primarily included agricultural and raw materials, such as fresh or dried dates, cement, and strawberries.
Despite trade fluctuations over the past five years, with a sharp decline in 2023, the strong recovery in 2024 highlights the resilience of Nigerian exports. This growth is mirrored in Nigeria’s expanding trade with other Sahel nations, particularly Mali and Burkina Faso, as regional economic ties strengthen amidst shifting political dynamics in the region.
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