Kemi Adeosun’s Call for a National Export Adviser and Focus on Export-Led Growth for Nigeria
Former Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, has issued a compelling call for President Bola Tinubu to appoint a National Export Adviser, emphasizing the immense untapped potential of Nigeria’s export sector. Speaking at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank’s (NEXIM) International Women’s Day Conference in 2025, Adeosun highlighted the stark disparity between Nigeria’s export performance and that of other African nations. She pointed out that Nigeria’s export-to-GDP ratio languishes at a meager 9.2%, significantly trailing behind countries like Ghana (34%), South Africa (32.8%), and Senegal (23%). Adeosun argued that the narrative surrounding Nigeria’s economic challenges should shift from focusing on reducing imports to prioritizing the expansion of exports. She believes that a dedicated National Export Adviser would play a crucial role in championing reforms, dismantling barriers to export, and facilitating the entry of Nigerian products into the global marketplace. This strategic move, she argued, would unlock immense economic opportunities and position Nigeria for sustainable growth.
Adeosun’s argument centers on the idea that Nigeria’s economic potential is being stifled by its underperforming export sector. She stressed that the problem isn’t excessive imports, but rather insufficient exports. By focusing on boosting exports, Nigeria can tap into new markets, generate foreign exchange, and create jobs. This shift in focus, she argues, would be more effective than simply trying to curb imports. The appointment of a National Export Adviser would signal the government’s commitment to export-led growth and provide a focal point for coordinating efforts to enhance export performance. This individual would act as a champion for exporters, advocating for their interests and working to remove obstacles that hinder their ability to compete globally.
Adeosun also highlighted the significant bureaucratic hurdles that Nigerian exporters face. She noted the cumbersome registration process, which takes an average of two to three weeks in Nigeria compared to just 48 hours in South Africa. These delays and complexities discourage potential exporters and stifle the growth of the sector. Streamlining these processes is crucial to creating a more conducive environment for export businesses to thrive. She further emphasized the vast potential of Nigerian products in the global market. From Nollywood films and Nigerian music to fashion, arts, crafts, food, and snacks, Nigeria boasts a wealth of world-class products that could capture significant market share internationally. Adeosun urged Nigerian women, in particular, to seize the opportunities in the export sector, highlighting their potential to drive economic growth and empowerment.
In his address at the conference, NEXIM Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abubakar Bello, reiterated the bank’s commitment to empowering women and promoting their economic advancement. He outlined various initiatives undertaken by the bank to support women entrepreneurs, including the Women and Youth Export Fund, the Small and Medium Enterprises Export Fund, and the Women in Oil and Gas Managed Funds. Furthermore, he announced the launch of the Women In Export Development Fund, a dedicated program aimed at fostering women’s participation in the export sector. Bello underscored the crucial role of women in national development, emphasizing that empowering women translates to empowering families, communities, and the entire economy. He stressed the importance of including women in all aspects of economic growth, particularly in areas like financial empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Adeosun’s call for a National Export Adviser and Bello’s emphasis on women’s economic empowerment underscore the growing recognition of the export sector as a key driver of economic growth and development in Nigeria. By focusing on expanding exports, streamlining bureaucratic processes, and empowering women entrepreneurs, Nigeria can unlock its vast economic potential and achieve sustainable prosperity. The proposed National Export Adviser would play a crucial role in coordinating these efforts, acting as a champion for exporters and driving the necessary reforms to create a more conducive environment for export businesses to flourish. This strategic move would not only boost economic growth but also empower individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
The International Women’s Day Conference served as a platform to highlight the importance of women’s participation in the export sector. Adeosun’s call for a National Export Adviser and Bello’s announcement of the Women In Export Development Fund signal a growing commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and leveraging their potential to drive economic growth. By focusing on exports, streamlining regulations, and providing targeted support, Nigeria can create a more inclusive and prosperous economy for all. This strategic shift towards export-led growth holds immense promise for unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and creating a brighter future for its citizens.
