Nigeria is set to begin exporting urea by 2028 as expanding investments in the gas and fertiliser sub-sector strengthen the country’s push for industrial growth and export diversification, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has said.
The Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Mr Saidu Mohammed, disclosed this during an inspection visit to Indorama Eleme Fertiliser and Chemicals Limited in Rivers State, noting that Nigeria was gradually transitioning from importing fertiliser to producing enough for export.
Mohammed said growing private-sector investments in gas-based industries, particularly fertiliser production, were laying the foundation for Nigeria to become a regional hub for value-added petroleum products.
According to him, the midstream gas sector remains critical to reducing dependence on crude oil exports, adding that urea exports would boost foreign exchange earnings and support domestic industrialisation.
He explained that Nigeria would require between $30 billion and $50 billion in additional investment to fully unlock the potential of its midstream and gas-derivative industries.
Mohammed also said increased fertiliser production would benefit local agriculture by improving availability and affordability for farmers.
He commended Indorama and other operators for expanding production capacity, assuring investors of a stable regulatory environment to support growth.
The visit forms part of the regulator’s broader effort to assess sector performance and accelerate value-addition in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
EXPLAINER: What Nigeria’s Planned Urea Export Means
What is urea and why is it important?
Urea is a key fertiliser used in agriculture worldwide. It is produced using natural gas, a resource Nigeria has in abundance.
What did the government announce?
Nigeria plans to start exporting urea by 2028, moving from being largely an importer to an exporter of fertiliser.
Who made the announcement?
The announcement was made by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) during an inspection of fertiliser production facilities.
Why is this significant for Nigeria?
• Boosts foreign exchange earnings
• Supports economic diversification
• Reduces reliance on crude oil exports
• Encourages industrialisation and job creation
• Improves fertiliser availability for local farmers
What is driving the export plan?
• Expansion of fertiliser plants such as Indorama Eleme and Dangote Fertiliser
• Increased private-sector investment in gas processing
• Regulatory reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)
What challenges remain?
Nigeria still needs $30–50 billion in investment, improved infrastructure, and consistent gas supply to sustain large-scale exports.
What happens next?
Regulators will continue facility inspections and policy engagement to ensure Nigeria meets its 2028 export target.