The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has said Nigeria will intensify efforts to mobilise investment and expand non-oil exports in 2026 as part of its economic diversification strategy.
Dr. Oduwole made this known while briefing journalists after the 2026 budget defence session with the Joint House Committee on Commerce, Industry and SMEDAN.
She noted that the ministry and its agencies would focus on strengthening trade reforms and supporting export-oriented businesses.
According to the minister, the government plans to embark on a nationwide tour under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), covering all six geopolitical zones to promote trade facilitation and market access opportunities.
She explained that the initiative would involve close collaboration with state governors and local governments to drive the administration’s diversification agenda and ensure grassroots participation in export development.
Highlighting recent progress, Dr. Oduwole disclosed that Nigeria’s non-oil exports rose by 14 per cent last year, exceeding six billion dollars in volume and value, one of the highest levels recorded in the country’s history.“Export is the way to go.
The government will continue to support producers in adding value to agricultural commodities such as cashew and other products before exporting them to markets across Africa and beyond,” she said.
Earlier, Chairman of the Joint Committee, Ahmed Munir, assured the ministry of legislative backing but stressed that the National Assembly would prioritise value for money and measurable economic impact in reviewing the 2026 budget.
Munir said the committee would scrutinise how the budget strengthens local content, promotes Made-in-Nigeria goods, and empowers Small and Medium Enterprises through improved access to credit, reduced regulatory bottlenecks and enhanced ease of doing business.
He described 2025 as a year of “surviving the storm,” adding that the focus must now shift to “commanding the sea” by transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy into a production-driven powerhouse.