By Editor
Nigeria’s total merchandise trade stood at N34,788.59 billion in the first quarter of 2026, according to fresh data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The report shows a mixed trade performance, with exports recording steady growth while imports declined significantly within the review period.
Total exports rose to N21,169.27 billion in Q1 2026, representing a 2.77percent increase compared to N20,598.48 billion in the same period of 2025. It also reflects an 11.63percent rise from N18,963.41 billion recorded in Q4 2025.
In contrast, total imports dropped to N13,619.33 billion, marking an 18.17percent decline year-on-year from N16,644.42 billion in Q1 2025, and a sharper 21.05percent fall compared to N17,250.93 billion in Q4 2025.
The data points to a narrowing import bill and stronger export performance in the early months of 2026.
Details later…
