Customs data reveals sharp rise in export value, container traffic, and revenue, signaling momentum in diversification efforts…..
Nigeria’s trade sector opened 2026 on a strong note, with fresh data pointing to a surge in non-oil exports, improved port activity, and rising government revenue.
Figures released by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) show that export performance in the first quarter recorded significant gains, reflecting what analysts describe as a strengthening trade ecosystem driven by ongoing reforms.
According to the report, total exports climbed by 38.68 per cent year-on-year to $925.84 million in Q1 2026, marking a substantial increase compared to the same period in 2025.
The growth was accompanied by a sharp rise in cargo throughput. Export container volumes nearly doubled within the period, jumping from 9,722 containers in Q1 2025 to 19,014 in Q1 2026, a 95.58 per cent increase that underscores improved port efficiency and logistics capacity.
Breaking down the quarter, January saw a marginal decline in export value, dipping slightly to $267.66 million. However, the trend quickly reversed in February with a 12.43 per cent increase, before surging dramatically in March.
March emerged as the standout month, with export value soaring by 135.83 per cent year-on-year to $425.48 million. This sharp spike played a decisive role in driving the overall quarterly performance and reflects a strong rebound in trade activity.
On the revenue front, collections tied to export operations also recorded healthy growth. Export surcharge revenue rose by 21.81 per cent to N199.36 million, while collections under the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) increased by 20.15 per cent to N6.03 billion.
The rise in these figures highlights the direct link between expanding export activity and improved government earnings from non-oil sources.
The latest data comes amid sustained policy efforts by the Federal Government to diversify the economy away from crude oil dependence. Initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural, manufacturing, and solid mineral exports alongside reforms in port operations appear to be gaining traction.
The near doubling of container traffic is particularly significant, suggesting increased utilisation of port infrastructure and better cargo handling processes, both critical to sustaining export growth.
The Nigeria Customs Service continues to play a central role in this transformation, not only as a revenue-generating agency but also as a key facilitator of trade and border management.
Momentum in the sector builds on a strong performance in 2025, when the Service recorded a record N7.281 trillion in revenue exceeding its annual target and marking one of its best results in recent years.
With an ambitious revenue projection of about N9 trillion for 2026, maintaining the current pace of export growth will be crucial.
For now, the Q1 figures suggest that Nigeria’s push toward a more diversified, export-driven economy is beginning to deliver measurable results. The challenge ahead lies in sustaining this trajectory and translating early gains into long-term economic resilience.
