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East Africa Frontline News

NextFrontier Africa is a media platform spotlighting Africa’s emerging opportunities in technology, tourism, aviation, agriculture, health, logistics, real estate, trade, education, and e-commerce.

July 03.2025

2 Minutes Read

Unlocking Trade Opportunities: Ireland's Growing Economic Ties with Nigeria

Bustling cityscape of Lagos with buses and modern buildings representing Ireland Nigeria trade relations.

Nigeria: An Emerging Market for Irish Trade

Nigeria has made remarkable strides in becoming Ireland's third-largest import market in Africa, reporting imports of €97 million ($114.17 million) in 2023. This increase signals the growing importance of Nigeria as an economic player on the continent. According to Neale Richmond, Ireland's Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Nigeria is not just a market but an "economic powerhouse," which presents massive growth opportunities for both nations.

Brewing Opportunities in Trade Relations

A vital link in this trade relationship is the brewing malt, a crucial ingredient for Nigeria's vibrant beverage industry. Ireland exports over 33,000 tonnes of malt, showcasing the unique synergy between Irish products and Nigerian consumer demand. With such trade relations flourishing, there is potential for Ireland to deepen economic ties via the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), facilitating easier cross-border trade.

Capitalizing on Diaspora Networks

The Nigerian diaspora in Ireland is substantial, serving as a connecting thread between the two nations. Edima Inyang, president of the African Professional Network of Ireland, emphasizes that the diaspora plays a transformative role in bridging cultural and commercial exchanges. This unique population can leverage their insights into both markets to cultivate new trade and investment opportunities.

Challenges in Bilateral Trade

Despite the positive growth in trade, the relationship has its challenges. The imbalance in trade flows is notable; Ireland exported 150,548 tonnes of goods to Nigeria while importing just 1,846 tonnes in one year. Funmi Abikanlu, a Nigerian banker in Ireland, stresses that while trade has flourished, Nigeria's export growth to Ireland has yet to match Ireland's success in the relationship. Raising awareness of these trade challenges could unlock further growth.

Future Outlook for Trade and E-Commerce

As the digital economy evolves, opportunities for e-commerce between Nigeria and Ireland also expand. With both nations investing in their digital infrastructures, there’s potential for a burgeoning partnership that can thrive within the AfCFTA framework. The growth in cross-border trade could reshape international commerce, allowing both nations to benefit from closer ties.

The shift in economic dynamics calls for exporters, importers, and e-commerce businesses to remain proactive in exploring new markets. Establishing connections through the existing diaspora and taking advantage of cultural similarities can enhance trade relationships, ultimately benefiting both nations’ economies.

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Unlocking Trade Opportunities: Ireland's Growing Economic Ties with Nigeria

Nigeria: An Emerging Market for Irish Trade

Brewing Opportunities in Trade Relations

Capitalizing on Diaspora Networks

Challenges in Bilateral Trade

Future Outlook for Trade and E-Commerce

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