ABUJA, Nigeria — A support group for President Bola Tinubu has attributed a “phenomenal” 38.68% increase in non-oil export earnings during the first quarter of 2026 to the administration’s aggressive economic reforms.
The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) stated this on Sunday, praising the diversification of Nigeria’s economy and arguing that the country is finally breaking its long-standing dependence on crude oil.
The statement, signed by Chairman Chukwudi Enekwechi and Secretary Segun Ogedengbe, noted that the surge in revenue coincides with a massive jump in port activity and more efficient customs procedures.
A Surge in Non-Oil Trade
According to recent data from the Nigeria Customs Service, the value of processed exports reached $925.84m in Q1 2026, marking a significant rise compared to the same period last year.
The group highlighted several key indicators of the “upswing” in trade:
- Export Value: A 38.68% increase in earnings compared to Q1 2025.
- Logistics Growth: Container throughput nearly doubled, rising from 9,722 to 19,014 containers—a 95.58% increase.
- Sector Performance: Increased activity was particularly noted in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
Port Reforms and Trade Facilitation
The TMV applauded the federal government for streamlining port operations and customs procedures, which they say have improved the speed and ease of doing business.
“The diversification of the economy as envisaged by the federal government is now driving the significant growth being witnessed,” the group said. However, they echoed calls from industry stakeholders for “infrastructure upgrades and policy consistency” to ensure the momentum is not lost.
A Call to Diplomats
The group also directed a message to Nigeria’s newly-appointed ambassadors, urging them to move beyond traditional diplomacy. The TMV called on the envoys to actively “explore export markets for Nigerian goods and services” and focus on attracting foreign direct investment to sustain the trade boom.
The statement concluded with an optimistic outlook for the rest of the year, predicting that the current trajectory of trade efficiency and export expansion is likely to continue.
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