Trade Between Nigeria and Philippines Hits $300 Million
Pecohub The volume of trade between Nigeria and the Philippines has surged by 700% over the last three years, rising from $47 million in 2023 to $300 million in 2025 as both countries move to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation.
This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Philippines’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole J. Mellejor, during the 128th Independence Anniversary celebration of the Republic of the Philippines hosted by the country’s Embassy in Abuja.
The envoy said both nations had continued to maintain cordial relations while exploring new opportunities in trade, investment, education and cultural exchanges.
Nigeria and the Philippines established diplomatic and trade relations in August 1962 and have maintained bilateral ties for more than six decades. Nigeria operates an embassy in Manila, while the Philippines maintains an embassy in Abuja, which shows the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
What they are saying
Mellejor said that while trade volumes between both countries remain relatively modest compared to larger global trading partners, commercial relations have recorded steady growth in recent years.
- “The level of bilateral trade is modest by today’s standards, but it has shown remarkable potential, having expanded consistently over the last three years.
- “That is about a 700 per cent increase, and we remain focused on encouraging partnerships between Philippines and Nigerian companies,” he said.
The ambassador also disclosed plans to establish a Nigeria-Philippines Business Council aimed at strengthening commercial engagements and creating a more structured platform for businesses from both countries.
According to him, the initiative is expected to improve coordination between private sector players and unlock new investment opportunities.
- “This is to ensure that business between the two countries is conducted in a more organised manner and to enable players on both sides to leverage their strengths,” he said.
Beyond trade and investment, cultural and educational exchanges have emerged as some of the strongest pillars of the relationship between the two countries.
Mellejor noted that Afrobeats music has gained significant popularity in the Philippines, while Filipino television dramas and soap operas continue to attract audiences in Nigeria, reflecting growing people-to-people connections.
- The envoy also revealed that more than 9,000 Nigerians are currently pursuing higher education in the Philippines, further strengthening educational ties between the two nations.
- Speaking at the event, Babagana Wakili, Chief of Protocol at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the Philippines.
He noted that members of the Filipino community in Nigeria had made important contributions to sectors such as healthcare, education and technology.
- “The professionalism, dedication and service of Filipinos in Nigeria remain appreciated by the government and people of Nigeria,”Wakili said.
He added that Nigeria was looking to deepen cooperation with the Philippines in trade and investment, agriculture, energy, labour mobility and capacity building.
- “We look forward to enhancing our cooperation for sustainable development and to sustaining the dignity of our peoples.
- “This anniversary celebration is not only a tribute to the Philippines’ proud history, but also an affirmation of the enduring bond between our two countries,” he added.
