Zenith Bank Hosts Global Seminar on Non-Oil Exports

Zenith Bank Plc hosted the 10th edition of its International Trade Seminar on Non-Oil Export on August 26, 2026. The virtual event, themed Unlocking Value and Harnessing Growth, brought together policymakers, regulators, and trade leaders from 97 countries to discuss transitioning Nigeria from raw commodity exports to competitive value chains.

Group Managing Director Adaora Umeoji reported that Nigeria's non-oil exports reached a record $6.1 billion in 2025. She urged participants to translate this growth into sustainable economic value by creating more value locally and exporting finished products rather than raw materials.

Government and regional leaders emphasized the need for structural shifts. Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole called for deeper reforms to ensure Nigeria retains more value from its exports. African Continental Free Trade Area Secretary-General Wamkele Mene highlighted the private sector's role in reducing the continent's reliance on unprocessed commodities, while Benedict Oramah of the Fund for Export Development in Africa argued for the creation of internal demand to finance African trade.

The seminar concluded with commitments from public and private sector leaders to improve customs efficiency, trade facilitation, and funding for exporters to increase Nigeria's global competitiveness.