Nigeria to Stop Fertilizer Imports, Export by 2028

Nigeria is about to flip the script on fertilizer, transforming from importer to exporter within the next two years.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority announced that the country will stop importing fertilizers as private sector expansion dramatically boosts domestic production. By 2028, Nigeria expects to begin exporting urea fertilizer to other nations.

Chief Executive Saidu Mohammed shared the news during a tour of Indorama Eleme Fertiliser and Chemicals Limited in Rivers State. He emphasized that continued imports no longer make sense given the scale of new production facilities coming online.

"Value-added products like fertilizers and urea are things Nigeria has no business importing," Mohammed said. Major expansion projects at facilities including Indorama and Dangote Fertiliser are driving the transformation.

The shift is part of Nigeria's broader strategy to become a regional hub for value-added oil and gas products. The country is investing heavily in its midstream petroleum sector, which processes raw materials into finished products like fertilizers.

Mohammed noted that fully positioning Nigeria as a production hub would require between $30 billion and $50 billion in investment. But current projects are already moving the needle in a major way.

The Ripple Effect

This change means more than just economic gains for Nigeria. Locally produced fertilizer will be more accessible and affordable for Nigerian farmers, strengthening food security across the country.

The move also creates thousands of jobs in manufacturing and processing facilities. As Africa's most populous nation builds production capacity, neighboring countries benefit from a closer, more reliable fertilizer source.

Other African nations spend billions importing fertilizers annually, money that could stay within the continent. Nigeria's transformation into an exporter keeps resources regional and strengthens agricultural supply chains across West Africa.

For farmers from Lagos to rural communities, the promise of steady, affordable fertilizer access could transform crop yields and livelihoods. That's the kind of foundation that builds lasting food security.

Nigeria joins a small but growing list of African nations producing their own fertilizers instead of depending on distant suppliers. Within 24 months, the country expects to cross over from buyer to seller on the global market.