By Abiola Olawale
Nigeria has begun to actively seek alternative trade partners to bolster its economy in response to the recent 15% import tariffs imposed by the United States, Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment has revealed.
The Minister said the development became necessary after United States President Donald Trump on August 1, 2025, announced the tariffs.
In an interview on CNN’s Quest Means Business, Oduwole emphasized Nigeria’s strategic shift to make new trade allies.
She highlighted that while the US remains a valued trade partner, Nigeria is expanding its reach to markets in Asia, the Gulf, and Latin America, with a particular focus on Brazil’s demand for Nigerian urea fertilizer.
The Minister said: “Nigeria remains responsive, not reacting. We’re focused on our reforms — on President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point agenda.
“It’s mostly an energy trading relationship. We’re also waiting to see what happens with the African Growth and Opportunity (AGOA) Act in September.
“Non-oil exports such as fertiliser, lead, some cocoa, and other commodities are performing well.
“Exports to the rest of Africa under the AfCFTA are up 24% year-on-year in Q1. The world is a big place. We are not just focusing on the US.”
Oduwole said Nigeria is strengthening trade ties with Brazil, China, Japan, and the United Araab Emirates (UAE), while also doubling down on support for domestic businesses.
“We have demand for urea fertiliser in Brazil. We’re looking at partnerships across Asia and the Gulf,” the minister said.
“The President is focused on supporting Nigerian businesses with market access and access to capital.”
