Nigeria has emerged as the United States’ second-largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa, following a significant increase in bilateral trade between the two countries.
The announcement was made by Keith Heffern, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, during the celebration of the 250th Independence Day of the United States in Lagos. He said two-way trade between both countries reached nearly $15 billion in 2025, representing a 14% increase compared to the previous year.
Trade Growth Reflects Stronger Economic Partnership
According to Heffern, the increase in trade is more than just impressive statistics. He noted that over 100 American companies currently operate in Nigeria, creating jobs, driving investment, and supporting economic growth in both countries.
He added that expanding trade and investment has become a central pillar of U.S. engagement with Africa, with Nigeria playing a key role due to its large market, strategic position, and growing economy.
U.S. Commits to Deepening Commercial Ties
The U.S. envoy said one of the mission’s top priorities is helping American businesses succeed in Nigeria while encouraging greater private-sector investment.
He highlighted the U.S.-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership (CIP)—a five-year agreement between the U.S. and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment—as a major platform for strengthening bilateral trade.
The initiative has brought together nearly 50 Nigerian and American companies to identify and remove barriers limiting trade and investment between both countries.
Security and Cultural Cooperation Also Strengthened
Beyond trade, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in security, education, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Heffern described the relationship between both nations as one of America’s most important partnerships on the African continent, noting that the diplomatic relationship has continued to grow over more than six decades.
Key Highlights
- Nigeria is now the United States’ second-largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Bilateral trade reached nearly $15 billion in 2025.
- Trade increased by 14% compared to 2024.
- More than 100 U.S. companies currently operate in Nigeria.
- Both countries are working to deepen trade, investment, security, and cultural cooperation through the Commercial and Investment Partnership.
The Story in Nigerian Pidgin
Nigeria Don Become America Second Biggest Trading Partner for Sub-Saharan Africa
United States don announce say Nigeria don become their second biggest trading partner for Sub-Saharan Africa after trade between both countries reach almost $15 billion for 2025. According to U.S. envoy Keith Heffern, the trade increase by 14 percent compared to the previous year.
He talk say more than 100 American companies dey operate for Nigeria, creating jobs and bringing investments. The U.S. also promise say e go continue to strengthen business, security, education and cultural relationships with Nigeria through the Commercial and Investment Partnership, wey dey help remove obstacles to trade and encourage more investment between both countries.
