Nigeria has maintained a national trade surplus since 2024, driven largely by significant improvements in port infrastructure, according to Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, the country's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
The minister highlighted that operational efficiencies at major terminals have been critical in sustaining export flows and managing import logistics during a period of volatile global trade conditions.
The assertion comes as Nigeria navigates a complex external environment.
While the overall trade balance has remained positive, recent data indicates deterioration in specific bilateral corridors.
Demand from the United States for Nigerian goods has contracted sharply, with exports to the US market falling by N365.6 billion, according to reports from Nairametrics.
This decline in US demand has placed additional pressure on the trade balance, making the efficiency gains at domestic ports even more vital for maintaining the surplus.