Türkiye eyes $5 billion trade target with Nigeria amid growing Africa focus

By Alpaslan Düven

Abuja, Nigeria – Türkiye is aiming to significantly deepen its economic footprint across Africa, with plans to boost its total trade volume with the continent beyond the current $40 billion. A key part of that strategy includes a fivefold increase in trade with Nigeria, from $1 billion to $5 billion, according to the Turkish Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Elif Durdu.

Speaking on the sidelines of a trade forum in Abuja, Durdu described the existing trade volume between the two regional powers as “underutilised,” given their respective economic strengths and strategic importance in their regions.

“Both Türkiye and Nigeria are influential in their regions. However, the level of trade and investment between us does not yet reflect this potential,” she said.

Highlighting Türkiye’s growing presence in Nigeria, Durdu pointed to several major investments by Turkish firms. These include Hayat Kimya’s $200 million manufacturing plant, Ülker’s $50 million food production facility, and Direkçi’s $22 million investment in agricultural projects.

In addition to private sector initiatives, Turkish companies have delivered $2.8 billion worth of infrastructure projects in Nigeria, underscoring the strong foundation for further cooperation in construction, energy, and logistics.

Durdu said efforts are underway to foster more direct business-to-business and government-level engagement, with a focus on diversifying trade and attracting new investment.

As Türkiye expands its diplomatic and economic footprint across Africa, its deepening ties with Nigeria—a key gateway market—are expected to serve as a cornerstone of its Africa strategy.