FG partners NEPC, MANEG to clear ₦330B EEG backlog, build sustainable export incentives
The Federal Government is working with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Group (MANEG) to clear approximately ₦330.08 billion in outstanding Export Expansion Grant (EEG) claims while developing a sustainable funding model. According to NEPC, ₦269.45 billion represents verified claims from 195 companies under the 2023 Promissory Note Programme, with an additional ₦60.64 billion in stepped-down claims from 32 companies covering 2017-2020.
This backlog resolution is critical as Nigerian exporters face cash flow constraints and weakened confidence from delayed payments, even as non-oil exports reached $6.1 billion in 2025—an 11.5% increase from $5.46 billion in 2024. Cocoa beans generated $1.99 billion and urea contributed $1.29 billion, demonstrating existing global demand for Nigerian products. However, exporters still contend with high production costs, unreliable electricity, and logistics challenges.
Beyond settling old claims, the reform seeks to fix structural weaknesses in EEG’s funding architecture through a professionally managed Trade Facilitation Fund, financed by ring-fencing 40% of monthly Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme collections. Success depends on transparent governance, predictable payment timelines, and incentives rewarding value addition—not just export volumes. Will these structural changes finally provide exporters the reliable support needed to confidently invest in processing facilities, secure international buyers, and compete sustainably in global markets?