🛑 Trump’s BRICS Tariff Threat Sparks Economic Concern in Nigeria
Trump’s BRICS tariff threat is sending shockwaves through global trade corridors. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MANEG) has responded with a strong warning. The group believes the move could destabilize Nigeria’s trade relationships with the United States, especially in the manufacturing and agriculture sectors.
But MANEG is not only raising concerns. It also sees a silver lining. The Executive Secretary of the group, Dr. Benedict Obhiosa, urges that Nigeria must prioritize AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) to strengthen local and regional trade resilience.
- Trump Warns Against BRICS De-Dollarization Efforts
- https://www.thecheernews.com/trump-declares-brics-dead-threatens-100-tariffs-on-blocs-trade/
📉 Tariffs Could Harm Nigeria’s Manufacturing and Agriculture Sectors
Dr. Obhiosa emphasized that Nigeria’s key sectors could face serious setbacks if Trump’s BRICS tariff threat becomes policy. The proposed 10% tariff would apply to any country officially aligning with the BRICS alliance, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Nigeria was formally admitted as the ninth BRICS partner country in January 2025, following a decision reached at the 16th BRICS Summit in October 2024.
Trump’s rhetoric labeled the alliance as pursuing “anti-American policies”—a move that could trigger punitive tariffs on all member states, including Nigeria.
Obhiosa noted:
“If implemented, these tariffs may severely impact agriculture and manufacturing. They could restrict essential imports, such as pharmaceuticals and production technologies. This would slow growth and raise operational costs.”
📊 Nigeria’s Trade with BRICS Surpasses US Exports
Recent trade data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) paints a telling picture. In the first quarter of 2025, Nigeria’s trade volume with BRICS nations stood at ₦5.41 trillion. In contrast, Nigeria exported just ₦1.54 trillion worth of goods to the United States during the same period.
This difference confirms a growing shift in Nigeria’s trade priorities toward emerging economies.
🌍 Nigeria Must Prioritize AfCFTA to Reduce Dependency
In light of these risks, MANEG is calling for a fundamental shift in strategy. According to Dr. Obhiosa, Nigeria must prioritize AfCFTA as a tool for sustainable economic growth. Doing so would allow the country to:
- Expand intra-African trade
- Reduce dependency on Western economies
- Diversify export markets
- Increase value addition to raw materials
“These challenges are opportunities in disguise. By focusing on AfCFTA, Nigeria can create jobs, boost local manufacturing, and build a self-sustaining economy,” he said.
🔄 Value Addition and Strategic Trade Policies Are Critical
In Obhiosa’s view, one key area of reform must be value addition. Nigeria exports vast amounts of raw materials. However, without processing them locally, the country loses significant income and job creation potential.
Investing in agro-processing, manufacturing hubs, and export logistics could shift this dynamic. Obhiosa advised that any export promotion strategy must include:
- Public-private partnerships
- Export financing solutions
- Stronger infrastructure for logistics
- Simplified trade regulations
📈 Turning Crisis into Opportunity
Rather than see Trump’s BRICS tariff threat as a roadblock, MANEG believes it could be the push Nigeria needs to accelerate trade reforms. By leveraging AfCFTA, Nigeria can transform its economy into a regional trade hub.
“With the right economic strategies and policy alignment, Nigeria can turn trade tensions into drivers of economic independence,” Obhiosa concluded.
📌 Summary at a Glance
| Trade Issue | Nigeria’s Position |
|---|---|
| Trump’s 10% BRICS Tariff | High Risk to Trade & Investment |
| Nigeria’s BRICS Status | 9th Partner Country as of Jan 2025 |
| Trade with BRICS (Q1 2025) | ₦5.41 Trillion |
| Exports to USA (Q1 2025) | ₦1.54 Trillion |
| MANEG’s Recommendation | Prioritize AfCFTA, value-added exports |
💬 Final Thought
As Nigeria faces rising global trade uncertainties, the solution may lie closer to home. Strengthening AfCFTA partnerships, enhancing domestic production, and securing regional value chains could secure Nigeria’s place in the evolving global economy.
In summary, Trump’s BRICS tariff threat should be a wake-up call. It’s time for Nigeria to pivot toward intra-African trade and build a more resilient economy.
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