Nigeria Ranks 3rd Among Africa’s Top 10 Manufacturing Nations

A recent analysis by The African Exponent, as highlighted by leading Nigerian and pan‑African news outlets, places Nigeria third among Africa’s top 10 manufacturing countries . The ranking assesses industrial might based on the size and influence of manufacturing companies over the past decade.

Topping the list is South Africa—praised for its advanced infrastructure and diversified industrial base—followed by Egypt, noted for its strong export ties to Europe and the Middle East . Nigeria, securing the third position, owes its ranking to key industrial players like the Dangote Group and BUA Group, whose operations in cement, oil refining, consumer goods, and food processing have significantly driven the country's industrial output .

The report estimates that Africa’s overall manufacturing sector will reach a combined total output of approximately USD 284.7 billion and value-added output of USD 77.66 billion by the end of 2025 . Within this context, Nigeria’s industrial progress is especially notable for leveraging its large domestic market, benefiting from supportive policy reforms, and sustaining continued investments in key sectors like cement, oil, and fast-moving consumer goods .

Looking ahead, analysts suggest that Nigeria has strong potential to climb even higher in future rankings—provided it maintains and deepens current momentum in policy reform, infrastructure improvement, and further integration of its manufacturing base.

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