The trade relationship between the United States and Nigeria has suffered a major setback, as fresh data from the US Census Bureau and Bureau of Economic Analysis reveals a $527 million drop in US imports of Nigerian goods in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Between January and May 2025, US imports from Nigeria totaled $2.12 billion, down from $2.65 billion during the corresponding period in 2024. This marks a 19.9% year-on-year decline, signaling rising trade tensions between the two countries.
The decline follows the introduction of sweeping protectionist policies under US President Donald Trump, who on April 2, 2025, signed an executive order imposing a general 10% import tariff on most countries. Under the new “Liberation Day” tariff framework, Nigeria was hit with an even steeper 14% tariff, largely due to its consistent trade surplus with the US.
While Nigeria remains one of America’s largest African trade partners, the new tariffs have significantly curtailed trade volume, especially in energy exports which form the bulk of Nigeria’s shipments to the US.
Trade analysts warn that the protectionist approach could lead to further deterioration in economic ties and negatively impact US companies sourcing raw materials or oil from Nigeria.
Despite the setback, officials in Abuja are reportedly exploring diversification of export markets and strengthening regional trade blocs, while calling for bilateral dialogue to address the worsening trade imbalance.
