Nigeria says it is widening its trade network beyond the United States after President Donald Trump reinstated 15 percent tariffs on some African exports. Trade Minister Jumoke Oduwole told CNN the government is “responding, not reacting” to the policy, and remains committed to economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda.
The United States exported $4.3 billion worth of goods to Nigeria last year, while Nigerian exports — mainly crude oil, fertiliser, and other commodities — were valued at over $5 billion. Oduwole said Nigeria is strengthening trade with Brazil, China, Japan, and the UAE, and is also pushing more exports under the African Continental Free Trade Area, which grew 24 percent in the first quarter.
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She confirmed Nigeria’s ongoing partnership with the US, noting a joint commercial investment programme launched in June, but stressed the importance of diversifying markets.
Oduwole also highlighted recent economic reforms including foreign exchange liberalisation, fuel subsidy removal, and tax system overhaul planned for 2026, saying monetary, fiscal, and trade policies are now aligned to boost investor confidence.
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