By Enam Obiosio
Nigeria’s economy expanded by 3.98 percent in the third quarter of 2025, according to a new report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The figure exceeds the 3.86 percent recorded in the same period of 2024, marking another quarter of steady improvement. Growth was broad based, with Agriculture rising by 3.79 percent, Industry by 3.77 percent, and Services by 4.15 percent. The report also shows that the economy produced a nominal GDP of N113.59 trillion.
Why It Happened
The NBS attributes the stronger performance to improved output across key non-oil sectors, better business conditions in services, and a gradual recovery in industrial activity. Oil production averaged 1.64 million barrels a day, providing additional lift. The Federal Ministry of Finance noted that ongoing policy reforms, targeted support to enterprises, and efforts to stabilise the macroeconomic environment helped reinforce the gains.
Who Benefits
Households and businesses gain from a more resilient non-oil economy, which accounted for 96.56 percent of total real GDP. The services sector, which made up 53.02 percent of real output, benefits from rising demand and improved investor sentiment. Farmers and agro processors also gain as agricultural activities continue to broaden and stabilise. Policymakers benefit from the credibility that comes with consistent growth.
Who Loses
Sectors that rely heavily on imports may face tighter margins if policy adjustments continue or if exchange rate pressures persist. Oil dependent states that depend on higher crude output as their main revenue source may see slower fiscal improvement due to production still being below long term potential. Firms that have delayed investments may also struggle to catch up as competition strengthens in services and manufacturing.
What the Numbers Signify
The Q3 data shows an economy becoming less reliant on oil and more diversified, with the non oil sector providing nearly all real gross domestic product (GDP). It signals rising productivity across services, a steady rebound in agriculture, and improved stability in industrial operations. The figures suggest that Nigeria is maintaining moderate growth even as global conditions remain uncertain.
What to Expect Next
With policy continuity promised by the Ministry of Finance, the next quarters are likely to focus on sustaining reforms that support investment, reduce business costs, and cushion households. Analysts expect the government to accelerate measures that deepen non-oil growth, strengthen infrastructure, and stabilise the macroeconomic environment. The next NBS report will show whether the momentum can be maintained through year end.
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